‘ANYTHING TO HELP’ HUMBOLDT

The donations come from 65 countries, range from $5 to $50,000, and total $11 million and counting. Behind them all is one common sentiment:

The immeasurable grief caused by a horrific bus crash in rural Saskatchewan — one that killed 16 people associated with the Humboldt Broncos junior hockey team — has sparked a stunning, record-breaking wave of generosity from across Canada and around the world.

More than $11 million has been contributed by 125,000 donors in a GoFundMe campaign started by Humboldt resident Sylvie Kellington, the mother of a younger player in the Broncos organization.

The Friday collision between the bus and a transport truck ended the lives of 10 players between the ages of 16 and 21; others suffered lifelong injuries. So much potential lost, so many dreams shattered in an instant. The outpouring of support, both in heartfelt sympathy and money, was immediate.

The original goal for the fundraiser was $100,000 but it was increased several times until it stopped at $4 million. Donations kept arriving, however, to make it the largest Canadian GoFundMe campaign in history.

There have been large contributions from corporations and NHL teams, though many of the donations are in the $5 to $20 range, and strangers are helping in any way they can. Some communities and youth teams have also chipped in. The spirit of giving has been unencumbered by borders. Help has come from some 65 countries.

Each donor has his or her own reason for giving.

‘Even though it happened far away, it’s like it happened to your next-door neighbour.’ RAY CZARNIK DONOR FROM CHICAGO