The Harris family. Courtesy of GoFundMe
By Southwester Staff
On December 21, 2023, a drive-by shooting outside the Friendly Food Market on Half Street SW and O Street SW killed two people, including local resident Patricia Harris. Harris’ three children, ages 14, 8 and 4, attended neighborhood schools, including Van Ness Elementary.
A GoFundMe led by members of the school community was launched with the goal of raising $20,000 to help defray the cost of the funeral and to provide the family with funds to support the children’s needs.
A family representative, Jerkenya Blunt, is a cousin of Harris’ mother, who is stepping in to support her grandchildren.
“Our family is so grateful for the outpouring of support from everyone,” Blunt shared with supporters on the GoFundMe page. “So much in our lives is forever changed. Having this money to pay for funeral costs…and some to set aside for future needs of these three children…helps us focus on them instead of money. The kids have a lot to deal with and are going to need a lot of love and support. Thank you for keeping us in your hearts.”
As of press time, nearly 300 people had contributed, in amounts ranging from $5 to $500. To learn more or donate, visit www.gofundme.com/f/supporting-the-family-of-patricia-harris.