The Youth Peace & Justice Foundation, also known as The Uvalde Foundation for Kids, today announced the distribution of $1,005.34 in raised funds within 24 hours of launching its response to the Shreveport tragedy. The rapid deployment of direct financial support for victims underscores what leadership described as a rare, student-led national mobilization capable of generating and deploying aid in real time.
The Foundation confirmed that the funds were directed to the Community Foundation of North Louisiana Survivors Fund, ensuring rapid delivery of financial assistance to victims and families impacted in the immediate aftermath.
“This was not just a fundraiser — it was an immediate response,” said Daniel Chapin, Founder and President of the Youth Peace & Justice Foundation. “Within 24 hours, students and supporters across multiple states came together, raised funds, and ensured that direct financial support reached victims. That level of urgency and compassion is extraordinary.”
According to the Foundation, the campaign was uniquely structured as a multi-state, student-led initiative, with youth participants actively organizing and driving outreach efforts. Students in Maryland led grassroots fundraising efforts, while youth in Texas coordinated media distribution and digital amplification. At the same time, individuals across the country contributed donations ranging from $10 to $200 and beyond, forming a broad-based national response.
“This was not a passive online campaign,” Chapin added. “This was a fluid movement — young people crossing state lines with purpose, compassion, and action to show Shreveport that they are not alone.”
The Foundation further confirmed that ongoing fundraising efforts will continue through May 1, with proceeds supporting both the Louisiana Survivors Fund and the “Love One Louisiana” initiative, which has committed to covering funeral expenses for the victims.
In addition to financial support, the Foundation has activated its 24-hour Community Crisis Line (254-499-8027), providing access to youth peer support specialists and licensed counselors, and continues coordinating with local and national partners to expand recovery resources.
The Foundation also reaffirmed that the victims will be honored through its national “Trees for Peace” memorial initiative, ensuring their lives are remembered through long-term, living tributes. This commitment to honoring victims follows recent tributes by local leadership, including the Natchitoches Parish School Board, which held a moment of silence during its April 21 meeting for the young people lost in the Shreveport area.
“Our commitment is not just to respond, but to respond immediately and meaningfully,” Chapin said. “What we’ve seen here is proof that when young people lead with compassion, real impact follows — and it happens fast.”