BEND, Ore. – In the wake of the tragic October 15 school shooting at Silver Rail Elementary, a grassroots effort is bringing a tangible reminder of love and support to the community. Thomas Ballard, known locally as “The Heart Rock Guy,” started a GoFundMe campaign to raise $10,000 for hand‑carved stone hearts that will be distributed to students, families and anyone in need of encouragement.
How the fundraiser works
For every dollar donated, Ballard promises to provide one stone heart, each hand‑carved and polished to a smooth finish. He has already arranged to bring more than 8,600 hearts to Central Oregon, a number that reflects both the scale of the need and the generosity of local donors.
Distribution plan
Ballard intends to mail a portion of the hearts to volunteers this week, then drive thousands more to Bend in December. He also plans to work with school counselors, therapists and community organizations to ensure the hearts reach those who need them most, offering a simple yet powerful symbol that no one is alone.
Community response
The campaign has quickly resonated with Bend residents. Early contributions have already covered a significant portion of the $10,000 goal, and many donors have expressed that the stone hearts represent a lasting token of solidarity, unlike temporary flowers or ribbons. Local businesses have offered to help with storage and transportation, reinforcing the collaborative spirit that has emerged after the tragedy.
Why stone hearts?
Ballard chose stone because it endures. Each heart is meant to serve as a lasting reminder that love and support can withstand even the hardest moments. “People need to know they are loved and not alone,” Ballard said. “A stone heart can sit on a desk, a nightstand, or a windowsill and keep that message close.”
How to help
Donors can contribute directly through the GoFundMe page, which provides a clear breakdown of the fundraising goal and the number of hearts that will be produced. The campaign also includes a link for those who wish to volunteer in the distribution effort, whether by helping load vehicles, delivering hearts to schools or assisting counselors in handing them out.
Looking ahead
Beyond the immediate distribution, Ballard hopes the stone hearts will become a lasting part of the Silver Rail community’s healing process. He envisions schools keeping a few hearts on display as a reminder of resilience and the power of collective care. As the fundraiser moves forward, the focus remains on providing comfort and reinforcing the bonds that hold the community together.
For more information or to donate, visit the GoFundMe page linked in the original story.
Original reporting: KTVZ (Central Oregon) — read the source article.
