The FJC community was deeply saddened to hear about yet another racially motivated attack at a grocery store in Buffalo over the weekend. Our hearts go out to the families of the 10 lives that were violently taken from this world and pray for the recovery, both physical and emotional, of the 3 people who were injured. We have learned that the manifesto of the alleged shooter contained both racist and antisemetic rhetoric and calls for more of this extremist behavior. The FJC community remains resolute in our commitment to fighting for the freedom, justice and peace of all humankind.

How to Help

To support the victims of this act of sinat hinam (baseless hatred), FJC is raising funds to cover the cost of funerals and also to provide food to community members who rely so heavily on the Tops supermarket (that is now closed temporarily). We were especially touched by the story of Andre Mackniel, a father who was at the Tops supermarket to buy a birthday cake for his son who just turned 3 (read more about the victims here). In his honor and memory, we want to give the community an opportunity to bake and share items and strengthen our ties to each other.

UPDATE: The FJC Baking Fundraiser is closed and we’re grateful to have raised over $1000 to support Buffalo. If you would like to give directly you can choose from any of these organizations:

• Black Love Resists in the Rust: Black-led organization focused on developing BIPOC leaders locally and running campaigns to redefine public safety

• VOICE Buffalo: A faith-based community organizing project (formerly a part of FIA/PICO)

• African Heritage Food Cooperative: Member-owned food cooperative focusing on sustained access and Black ownership

• Open Buffalo: A racial, economic, and ecological justice civic organization focused on leadership development, advocacy, and organizing

• Every Bottom Covered: The only diaper bank in Western New York