An online fundraiser for a Palo Alto High School student who was killed by a Caltrain has surpassed its goal in less than a day.
The money will allow the family to hold a service and create a memorial for Ash He, 15, who died before school on March 4 at the Churchill Avenue crossing. Ash was non-binary.
“Any additional funds will be used to support youth mental health and gender equity, causes that were deeply meaningful to Ash and our family,” the family said yesterday. “We hope to carry forward Ash’s spirit by making a difference in the lives of others.”
A GoFundMe page was set up on Thursday to raise $30,000 to “cover memorial expenses, ease financial burdens, and allow their loved ones the space to grieve without additional stress.”
The page begins with the following: “With heavy hearts, we share the devastating news of the sudden passing of Ash, a beloved Palo Alto High School 10th grader who brought light, creativity, and joy to those around them. Ash had a deep passion for art and theater, using their immense talent to express themselves and bring people together.”
The author of the page, A. Wong, concludes by saying, “Thank you for your love, support, and generosity. Let’s stand together to celebrate the beautiful life of Ash and lift up their family in this time of need.”
The fundraiser has brought in $33,378 and counting.
The death has caused a period of mourning and grief at the Palo Alto Unified School District.
“As we move forward together, let us honor our lost student by taking care of ourselves and each other. Let us remember that in both and joy and sorrow, we are one community,” board member Shana Segal said at a meeting Tuesday.