MEMPHIS, Tenn. –Friends are rallying to help the family of four Memphis children all under the age six, who were tragically murdered last week.
Deputies said their mother, Shanynthia Gardner, was the one who killed them.
She was taken to the Memphis Mental Health Institute.
On Wednesday support from family and friends is pouring in as costs surrounding the children’s deaths rose.
“This is a very good family and they’re always supportive. Always doing whatever they can to help others and I just had to do something,” said Sharon Hall.
That’s why Hall joined forces with April Hubbard.
The two have known the Gardner family for years.
“What we’re trying to do here is let them know we love you, we support you, anything else we can do to be here for you we are,” said Hall.
Support here in the Mid-South for the family of 6-month-old Yahzi, 3-year-old Sya, 4-year-old Tallen and 2-year-old Sahvi Gardner has been pouring in.
One GofundMe page has raised more than $9,000.
In the state of Tennessee, families can also be eligible for a criminal injuries compensation fund.
Money is given to grieving families from fees paid by federal and state criminals.
“The fund can help those innocent victims defer the cost of eligible expenses such as medical and funeral expenses. Every situation is different. You would file a claim and we would go through and help victims find the expenses that are eligible,” explained Shelli King, with the Tennessee Department of Treasury.
The money doesn’t come immediately, and how much money is granted is decided on a case by case basis.
“They need it beforehand you know, that’s after the fact,” said Hubbard.
A funeral for the four children is set for this Saturday.
Hall and Hubbard said the funeral is just the beginning of a long, difficult road for the grieving family and every little bit from the community helps.
“They have a long way to go,” said Hubbard.
A candlelight vigil is set for 7 p.m. Thursday night in the field across the street from the Greens at Irene apartment complex on Shelby Drive.
Everyone is invited to attend and organizers will also be accepting donations for the family.
