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Apalachee High School shooting victim returns home | How you can support her recovery

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Published  September 7, 2024 9:04pm EDT
Apalachee High School shooting
FOX 5 Atlanta

T-shirt fundraiser for Apalachee HS victim

Melany Garcia, a freshman at Apalachee High School is finally coming home days after the devastating shooting. Meanwhile, a woman from her community has set up a t-shirt fundraiser to help out with her recovery.

BARROW COUNTY, Ga. - Three days after the Apalachee High School shooting that shattered the veil of safety in Barrow County, one of the surviving victims was able to return home.

Melany Garcia, a freshman, was one of nine people hospitalized after the attack. She was shot in the shoulder. Two of her schoolmates and two faculty members did not make it.

Many community members have found it in their hearts to organize vigils and fundraisers to remember each of the victims and help their families cope. That's how Apalachee High School alumna got the idea to give away some of the proceeds from her small business.

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Simply Staples LLC

RELATED: How to help Apalachee High School shooting victims

Haley Staples, the owner of Simply Staples felt drawn to Melany Garcia's family after learning that her mom has four children, three of whom also attend Apalachee High School.

"It doesn't feel real," Staples said. "I don't want to believe it, but sadly it has happened."

After posting about her new mission on Facebook, she sold nearly 450 t-shirts in the course of just two days. Each shirt costs $20, and $10 from each sale benefits Garcia's healing journey. The other $10 goes back into funding the supplies to make more shirts.

After two surgeries, Staples said she was excited when Garcia's mom gave her the great news that her daughter was able to come back home.

"She actually said Melany has done great through it. She said she's handled it like a champ," Staples explained. "It has been rough for her. She does have three other littles at home, so she's ready to get home to them as well."

FOX 5 Atlanta has been keeping track of other events to support the victims and families affected by the Apalachee High School shooting.

Here's a list of verified GoFundMe accounts and fundraisers accepting donations for those impacted. There is also a GoFundMe campaign set up for Garcia's family.

Apalachee High School shooting: Several hospitalized victims recovering

Melany is one of nine people injured by gunfire Wednesday. Family and friends have identified others still recovering on verified GoFund me accounts.

Taylor Jones was life-flighted to Grady Memorial Hospital and underwent surgery, according to the GoFundMe.

Friends say Natalie Griffith underwent surgery and had to reconstruct her wrist, according to her GoFundMe.

David Phenix, a teacher, was shot in his hip and foot, according to his GoFundMe. Friends say he was protecting his students at the time.

Bikers for healing at Apalachee High School

Following the devastating mass shooting at Apalachee High School, a group of bikers rounded up and showed their love to the community and the affected families at a vigil held on campus.

The community continues to come together. On Saturday, a large group of Bikers met at the Apalachee High School parking lot to pay their respects at the memorial set up outside the school.

"I'm praying for all the students and faculty when they go back. My heart goes out to all of you guys," Staples said. "I'm glad the community has come together. We love you all."