Community helps explosion victims

INDIANAPOLIS (WISH) - As investigators do their jobs, the community continues pitching-in, offering help for the victims of the Richmond Hill subdivision explosion.

It started immediately after the explosion and has grown from there.

To see the outpouring of a generous community you need only look to the Southport Presbyterian Church. A congregation that donated building space and members time to give essential items to those suffering after the south side explosion.

Cindy McClain is a church elder.

"We have had such a wonderful outpouring of donations from the community. From people who are bringing clothes and food. We've had a lots of dog food and lots of diapers and those kinds of things," says McClain.

Gallagher's Restaurant on Emerson at Stop 11 figured those from the Richmond Hill subdivision could use a treat. A meal beyond the basics. Pizza, for free to residents of Richmond Hill through the end of the year. 20 percent off for crews working at the scene.

Owner Carrie Himes says simply, "You know our hearts go out to them. And anything above and beyond that we can help them with, we're here," she says.

The Incredible Pizza Company is holding a car show Saturday at the restaurant on Hardegan Street raising money for families in need.

Jeremiah Gray Edison Elementary School has felt the pain of the explosion first hand and is doing its part as well.

"We have six children that were impacted through their homes but basically every child has been impacted because they felt the blast or they heard the sirens and the blast," says Principal Elizabeth Fox. Parents and students have donated money to buy bins for carrying items out of wrecked homes, and money for toys for children. "Before Thanksgiving we want to have one thing at least to give to each child," says Fox.

And if all of the items donated aren't distributed to Richmond Hill homeowners, don't worry says Cindy McClain of the Southport Presbyterian Church.

"Everything's that's there will be distributed to people who are needful of it," she says.

The Colts and Pacers are pitching in $10,000 each to the Red Cross Relief Fund. If you want to help, the easiest way is donating to that fund.

You can donate online at www.redcross.org or text a $10 donation to REDCROSS at 90999.

So far, donations to that fund have totaled more than $25,000.