More than 600 people came out to support Alexandra Williams, 12, the Jordan-Elbridge sixth grader hit by a car in March.
A pancake breakfast was held Saturday, May 3 at the Jordan-Elbridge Community Church to raise money for the Williams family to help alleviate the costs of caring for Alex, who is still in the hospital.
Alex’s aunt, Laura Williams, said the turn out far exceeded expectations.
It was kind of overwhelming, but definitely in a good way, she said.
Williams said about 70 volunteers from the church, Jordan-Elbridge Civic Society, and community joined together Saturday for the event.
Terri Sherman, of Elbridge, said more than 600 breakfasts were sold during the four-hour event, which included raffles, face painting and activities.
It was very heartwarming and made us feel good, Sherman said.
Sherman, who has two sons in the J-E school district, said her sons know Alex and thought it deeply touched everyone in the community.
Williams said Alex’s mother, Rhonda Williams, moved into a handicap-accessible building Sunday, because Alex will be in a wheel chair for about a year and their former home was not accessible.
We’ve been putting the benefit money to good use making alterations, Williams said. We’re hoping to have everything done before she comes home.
That day, said Williams, is still a couple of weeks away, but Alex is improving every day.
She has up days and down days, Williams said.
She’s doing really well, all things considered.
Community support, Williams said, has been absolutely incredible. The family has received donations from people who never met Alex, as far from Elbridge as East Syracuse and Cicero.
Messages on the website set up for, www.caringbridge.com/visit/alexandrawilliams, Alex are posted from strangers, wishing her well and giving support.
They’re so touched that they start crying when they read some of them, Williams said of the messages.
Williams said donations to the Alex Williams Benefit Fund can be made at M&T Banks, or mailed to P.O. Box 96, Elbridge, NY 13060. Friends, family and well-wishers can also show their support with I’m Helping Alex t-shirts, available for $10, by contacting Williams at [email protected].
