Sioux Falls, S.D. – In the wake of the tragic assault that claimed the life of a child in Hartford on Sunday, local officials are emphasizing a single, family‑approved way for community members to offer support.
Family‑approved fundraiser highlighted
West Central School District Superintendent Erick Knight posted on the district’s community social‑media page that the only fundraiser currently endorsed by the victim’s family is a GoFundMe campaign. “The GoFundMe fundraiser is the only family‑approved fundraiser at this time,” Knight wrote on Oct. 28, 2026. “Memorials in the child’s name should be sent to the United Wolfpack Special Olympics organization. All other fundraising efforts are asked to be done through the GoFundMe. The jar fundraiser is not an approved fundraiser by the family.”
Why a single channel matters
By consolidating donations through one platform, the family can ensure that all contributions are directed efficiently to cover immediate needs, such as funeral expenses, counseling services, and ongoing support for the child’s siblings. The district’s clarification also helps prevent confusion and potential misuse of funds that can arise when multiple, uncoordinated campaigns emerge after a tragedy.
How to donate
Residents who wish to help can contribute directly to the GoFundMe page linked in the district’s post. The campaign page provides details on how the money will be used and offers a transparent view of contributions received.
Memorials to United Wolfpack Special Olympics
In addition to monetary support, the family has requested that any memorial items—such as flowers, cards, or tribute videos—be sent to the United Wolfpack Special Olympics organization. The organization, which serves individuals with intellectual disabilities throughout the region, will coordinate the delivery of these tributes to the family, ensuring they are received in a respectful and organized manner.
Community response
Local businesses and neighbors have already begun expressing their willingness to assist. Several restaurants have offered to host donation drives, and a nearby church plans to hold a prayer service for the family. The district’s message underscores the community’s strong desire to rally around one of its own during this difficult time.
Call for respectful participation
Superintendent Knight emphasized the importance of following the family’s wishes, noting, “It is with an abundance of sensitivity that we felt it necessary to send this information to our community and businesses. While we understand there may be individuals that feel compelled to do something in support of the family, we ask that you please go through appropriate channels to do so.”
The district’s proactive communication reflects a broader commitment to transparency and compassion, hallmarks of the West Central community’s response to tragedy. By directing support through the approved GoFundMe and honoring the family’s request for memorials, residents can help the grieving family focus on healing rather than navigating a maze of disparate fundraising efforts.
Original reporting: Dakota News Now KSFY Sioux Falls (local) — read the source article.
