In response to the horrific acts of violence at Sandy Hook Elementary School in Newtown, Conn., United Way of Western Connecticut, in partnership with Newtown Savings Bank, has established the Sandy Hook School Support Fund.

Donations will be used to provide support services to the families and community affected by this tragedy.

Online donations can be processed at https://newtown.uwwesternct.org/.

“As we all have been learning of the carnage that has happened to this community, we are asking ourselves what can I do to help? There will be short term needs as well as long term needs for this community, and United Way of Western Connecticut is in that community to help. Donations to the local United Way will have meaningful impact to help those affected by this tragedy in Newtown, Conn.,” said Cathy Niiro, executive director for United Way of Island County.

“We continue to keep the victims, their families and the entire Newtown community in our thoughts and prayers during this difficult time,” said a release from United Way of Western Connecticut.