In the Wake of Local Shootings, Here’s How To Help

Salt Lake is reeling after two separate shootings over the weekend, one at the "No Kings" protest in downtown Salt Lake City and the other at WestFest in West Valley. These tragic events have left many people in our community shaken and grieving. Here are ways to help care for yourself and others.

Donate

Arthur Folasa Ah Loo, known to many as Afa, was killed at the "No Kings" protest on Saturday. He was a beloved husband, father, friend, and pillar in Utah’s Pasifika community. A GoFundMe has been set up to support his wife and two kids.

Anderson and Mehili Garcia, whose 8-month old son was killed at WestFest on Sunday, are asking for support to bring him back to Guatemala for a proper burial surrounded by loved ones.

Orgs To Support

If you want to get involved in ongoing community efforts, these local organizations are making a difference across Salt Lake and Utah.

• Moms Demand Action Utah: Advocates for common-sense gun laws and safer communities
• Everytown for Gun Safety: Working nationally to reduce gun violence through education and policy
• West Side Brown Berets: Empowering Salt Lake’s west side communities, they recently released a handy guide on long-term organizing in Utah.

Take Care

If you or someone you know needs mental health support, here are some resources:

• National Suicide & Crisis Hotline (988): A confidential, free lifeline for suicide prevention and mental health crises. Available 24/7/365.
• SafeUT App: Chat with licensed counselors via app or text. Available 24/7/365.
• Utah Warm Line (1-833-SPEAKUT or 801-587-1055): A listening ear when you need someone to talk to. Available daily from 8 a.m. to 11 p.m.