River Region United Way Establishes Emergency and Recovery Fund for Victims Impacted by the Tragic Event in Downtown Montgomery October 4, 2025
Montgomery, Alabama (October 6, 2025) – In response to the devastating and fatal shootings in downtown Montgomery on Saturday night, October 4, 2025, River Region United Way has established an Emergency and Recovery Fund. All funds raised will go to support those victims and their families that were directly impacted by the event, specifically for Funeral Services, Trauma and Grief Focused Counseling, and Monthly Bill Assistance. Any remaining funds will be used to support Helping Montgomery Family Initiative – HMFI – a program established under the Montgomery District Attorney’s Office, that works with Montgomery Public Schools and many local agencies to address truancy.
Azzie Oliver, Montgomery County District Attorney, expressed her feelings, saying, “We must commit and continue to speak out against this senseless violence and work together to foster a future where safety and peace are not just ideals, but realities for every neighborhood and every person in our city.”
River Region United Way ensures a transparent process for how the funds are distributed once we understand clearly what is needed and how best to support these families.
“To the families of Shalanda Williams and Jeremiah Morris, no words could convey how heartbroken we are over the loss of your loved ones through this violent and senseless act. And to the other victims and their families our prayers will continue for your recovery and healing,” said Jannah Bailey, President and CEO, River Region United Way. “Our community has changed forever but River Region United Way stands ready to help our city recover with each of us stepping up to help.”
To give online go to our DONATE NOW page and designate your donation to UnitedMGM, or you can text UnitedMGM to 41444. Always be cautious of suspicious websites and check the URL before entering personal information and never click links in emails or texts from unknown senders.
If you are a family member or victim and need assistance, please call River Region United Way, 334.264.7318, and our Team will be there to assist you.
For more information or assistance, please call 211, Jannah Bailey, President and CEO River Region United Way, 334.313.3105 or Kayla Dreher, Community Impact Director River Region United Way, 334.323.2501.
Media Contact: Aaleia Freeman, Resource Development and Marketing Director River Region United Way, 334.264.7318.
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River Region United Way works to help communities thrive through Youth Opportunities, Healthy Communities, Financial Security, and Community Resiliency. We strive to unite the community to achieve measurable results that change lives. We work collaboratively with local nonprofits, businesses, community leaders, city and county government, donors and volunteers to multiply impact and solve big-picture issues that no one person or organization can address alone.
