A gunman opened fire in a gay nightclub in Orlando early Sunday morning, killing 49 people and wounding an additional 53. It was the deadliest mass shooting in American history. While there is clearly nothing positive about a massacre, it's important to highlight the acts of kindness and generosity from people and businesses who worked to help the families and friends of the victims, first responders and law enforcement. Here are five examples:
Churches offer free funerals
Serve orlando from seth cain on Vimeo.
A number of Central Florida churches are offering free funeral services to the families of the victims, the Orlando Sentinel reported. Metro Church in Winter Springs, Florida, was among the churches that are offering the free services. Seth Cain, pastor at Metro Church, said in a video message (which can be watched above), “This was not a part of God’s plan. So if there’s anything we can do for you to help you through this time, please let us know.”
People hand out free food, water
After the shooting, there was plenty of confusion near the scene of the deadly crime, as media, law enforcement and families of people who attended the club were trying to get answers. Several volunteers handed out free water and food to those near the scene. Justin Cain, who knew some of the victims, told WJXT he was bringing food to the families and first responders to help out after the travesty. A Chik-fil-A location in Orlando, which is normally closed on Sundays due to company policy, opened to serve food as well.
Free flights for families of victims
Airline JetBlue said Monday they were offering free flights to and from Orlando for the direct family members or domestic partners of anyone killed or injured in the attack. The airline also said it was setting up a donation program so crewmembers could offer resources said it would make a charitable contribution to the families. "We want to do our part to help the victims of this tragedy, as well as support the Orlando community through this difficult time," JetBlue said on its company blog.
Temporary housing for families
Orlando realtor Christian West Howard has been placing the families of victims as they come into Orlando. On Tuesday, Howard said his company had put about 40 people already and 20 more people are being placed. "For the families affected by the shooting, our goal is for you to step on a plane and come right here worry free. We will take care of everything else," Howard wrote on Facebook.