Following Tuesday's tragedy, groups in Charlottesville and across the nation have sprung into action, working to aid victims of the attacks and their families.
The Charlottesville Fire Department and Albemarle Fire-Rescue working with volunteer fire departments throughout the county collected close to $250,000 dollars for relief of families of the estimated 350 dead firefighters in New York. Firefighters stood on street corners holding boots and asking for donations as part of a nationwide effort sponsored by the International Association of Firefighters.
"It's been unbelievable how people have just opened their wallets and given," said Lieutenant Commander Pete Sweeney of the Charlottesville Fire Department. "It's been a tremendous confirmation of the trust in firefighters and the support in the community."
Entire companies of firefighters were wiped out as the towers of the World Trade Center complex collapsed. One hundred sixty-eight New York City firefighters were promoted to fill positions as the search through the wreckage in lower Manhattan continues.
"It really hits home to see this happen to men and women just like us. Mothers and fathers. The community has always been appreciative of us, and the support they have extended to the families is amazing," Sweeney said.
Citizens also turned out in large numbers to donate much-needed blood. Virginia Blood Services has received 800 units of blood in Charlottesville since Tuesday.
"The support has been completely overwhelming,"said Brucie Quick, manager of operations for Virginia Blood Services in Charlottesville.
Virginia Blood Services has shipped blood to Washington and New York since Tuesday. Normal donation schedules were suspended during the week in favor of community drives. Regular schedules resume today, though Virginia Blood Services expect the high turnout to continue.
"The nation has sufficient blood for today, but the need will be ongoing as treatment of victims continues," Quick said. "We have to maintain a state of readiness."
According to the Virginia Blood Services, the largest group of blood donors is those of college and high school age. "I've been so impressed by the passion they have shown," Quick added.
Charlottesville's Red Cross chapter also has experienced increased aid in collecting funds. Several student organizations have helped raise money that will be used to provide shelter, food, clothing and funeral services.
Charlottesville's aid for victims and their families mirrors a nationwide outpouring of support.
"We see death and tragedy everyday but no one ever deals with it on this level," Sweeney said. "I'm very proud of our community"
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