Thousands of dollars have been raised in a massive show of support for the family of a young girl tragically killed in a car crash in Shawnigan Lake.
A GoFundMe memorial fund for the family of Evelyn Ooms, a nine-year-old girl who loved to ride her BMX and play hockey, had raised more than $15,000 Friday, meeting its goal in just three days.
Tony and Kathleen Church launched the crowdfunding campaign and know the Ooms through the BMX community.
They said all of the funds raised will go to Evelyn’s family as they deal with the tragic loss.
“Evelyn was a vibrant young lady, energetic, sometimes maybe a little mischievious,” said Kathleen Church. “From watching on the BMX track it really shined through she loved the sport and was proud of her accomplishments. Truly a sportsman both on and off the track.”
She said she and her husband launched the online fundraiser to support the Ooms and to give them time to grieve, calling them a “kind and loving” family.
Church said the family is “truly grateful” for the outpouring of support from the community.
More than 200 donations had been made as of Friday, ranging from $20 to $500. Many came from families who knew Evelyn, and others were sent anonymously.
“Forever in my thoughts. So sorry for your loss. Her glowing personality and smiling face will be greatly missed,” one donator wrote.
“Although we didn’t personally know you, we feel your loss so deeply. I know so many people that Evelyn has blessed with her life and love for sports,” wrote another.
The write-up for the memorial fund ends with a powerful reminder.
“Always remember to let your family and friends know how much you love and appreciate them,” it says. “Things can change so fast.”
A bottle drive has also been launched to raise funds for the family at Alpine Bottle Depot on Dunford Road in Langford.
The single-vehicle collision happened when the vehicle Ooms was travelling in lost control and hit a hydro pole on Shawnigan Lake Road near Sooke Lake Road Sunday morning.
