As we hold everyone affected by the heartbreaking events at Silver Rail Elementary in our hearts, the community has come together in the most incredible ways. Here are the ways to find & give support, come together, and find community.
Gatherings, support sessions and fundraising events, soonest first. Details may change, so please check with the organizer before you go.
“During times of profound grief, we believe that community can provide comfort and gentle healing. We're opening our Discovery West pop up for free Open Play to all families in our community seeking a welcoming space to gather together and play.”
“We would love to open up our farm this Saturday and Sunday to any families who could use a little extra love, comfort, and healing through some donkey snuggle therapy. We have two baby mini woolly jack foals in our herd who are full of love and eager to run up to greet you. They are gentle, docile, and incredibly affectionate. I can't help but think they might bring a little joy and a few smiles to some of our kiddos during such a heartbreaking time.”
“We'll have a pot of vegetable soup to share (vegan and gluten-free) and self-guided farm activities, including seed saving, arts and crafts, and caring for the garden. Drop in whenever you'd like during those hours. Join an activity or simply spend time on the farm. Children must be accompanied by an adult.”
Drive through the gate east of the Seed to Table sign and park along the gravel road on the left. The farm is on private property, so please leave any closed gates closed. The Sisters Farmers Market is also open Sunday 10 a.m.–2 p.m. at Fir Street Park, with kids' activities and a $5 produce coupon for children.
“Will be gathering and singing songs for the victims” with donations accepted for the school and Bend-La Pine Schools. “Join us @blongbotham and @masonjameslive and let the music be medicine.”
Free drop-in support with crisis counselors and trained peers, hosted by Deschutes County Health Services, St. Charles Health System and Bend-La Pine Schools. Open to all students, families, staff and community members. No registration.
“In the wake of the heartbreaking tragedy at Silver Rails Elementary, we wanted to create a space for families to come together, spend time with one another, and find a little comfort in our community.” 100 free pumpkins donated by Schilling's Garden Market. Paint there or take one home; all painting supplies provided. 50% of Sunday's sales go to Silver Rail families.
“Drop in whenever you want, however long you want. Bring friends, make friends, be together during a time that our unity as moms means so much. If there is a lot of interest in this time, we will host more of these later in the week. Feel free to RSVP in the comments or just show up.”
A benefit dance class led by Shannon Abero Guerrero, a Dancing with the Central Oregon Stars hip hop coach, “to support Sparrow Saylor, who loves to dance and doesn't let her physical challenges keep her from doing so!” All proceeds go to Saylor's family. Any amount is appreciated, and everyone is welcome.
“A gentle space to gather, ground, rest or share what's on your heart, and receive the comfort of a soothing sound bath.” With Willow Merchant and Natalia Martin.
“We invite anyone and everyone to join us at the Birth Center this Sunday evening for a vigil. We will hold space for the grieving parents, first responders, teachers, expectant parents, and our community as a whole.”
“If you or your family need a place to go, a distraction, a moment of comfort, or simply somewhere to exist for a little while, our doors are open.” An open play area with extra LEGO bricks and space for anyone who needs them. “No purchase, no expectations. Just a place to come together, build, play, or to take a moment to yourself.”
“For the rest of the month of October 19th-31st, we are offering free movement classes to the community. No need to sign up, just show up. We will be offering sweet treats and comfort to those who need it. If you would like to donate what you can, funds will go towards the affected staff and families of Silver Rails.”
Classes are held at The Space in Bend and at Lava City Cirque.
This week’s classes:
Mon, Oct 19 · 4:45 p.m. · Teen Hip Hop (ages 13–17)
Tue, Oct 20 · 4:30 p.m. · Kids Lyrical/Contemporary (ages 8–12) · 5:30 p.m. · Adult Lyrical/Contemporary (18+)
Wed, Oct 21 · 4 p.m. · Kids Hip Hop (ages 8–12) · 5 p.m. · Teen Lyrical/Contemporary (ages 13–17)
Thu, Oct 22 · 4:30 p.m. · Acro I (ages 5–7) · 5:30 p.m. · Acro I/II (ages 8–12)
Sun, Oct 25 · 5:30 p.m. · Adult Hip Hop (18+)
“In light of the news that Bend-La Pine Schools will be closed Monday and Tuesday, we'll once again be offering pay-what-you-can admission on October 19th and 20th, from 8 AM to 3 PM.”
“Tomorrow, Monday 10/19, from 9am–1pm, we are opening our pool at SafeSplash Bend for a free community open swim. Our hope is to provide a place for families to come together, for children to laugh and play, and for all of us to find a little light during this challenging time. All are welcome, and we would love to see you.” From Kristyn, Chase and Grant and the SafeSplash Bend team.
“Come together in community to write letters or cards of support and love to the students, staff, and families of Silver Rail Elementary. All supplies provided. For children, families, and people of ALL ages.” Hosted by Deschutes Public Library.
“We are adding a variety of gatherings and events at the Central Library on Monday and Tuesday as kids remain out of school, and hope to provide ways for children and people of all ages to connect and be in community with one another. The library can also be a place to be amongst others, but in quiet reflection if that's what you need.”
The library says more gatherings are planned for Tuesday.
“We welcome all families to come and join our team for pop-up nature and art activities in the park this Monday and Tuesday. We'll have some options for families to come enjoy the outdoors and engage with go-at-your-own-pace activities to help connect with nature and community. Come spend the morning with us and other families, if this feels like a good option for you and your family.”
“Golf gives us the opportunity to be together with our tribe and grieve however you need to. Walking outside in fresh air with friends. That's all this needs to be. Thank you to our community partners @oldbackninegolf and @xgolfbend for opening their doors and offering our kids complimentary tee times and simulator play to come together this week. Please DM for more information to sign up.” From the Central Oregon Junior Golf Association.
“Come anytime in that window. Parents are encouraged to stay so we can all connect together. However, if you need to drop your child(ren) off we ask that they are at least 5 years of age and that you confirm with us first so that we are staffed appropriately for the number of drop off kids. We will have aerial slings, gymnastic equipment, obstacle courses, arts & crafts, a calm and quieter front area, open arms and open hearts.”
“With no school for many kids in the area Monday and Tuesday, we are coming together to skate. If you can, please join us Monday at Ponderosa Skatepark from 12-4, and Tuesday at Rockridge Skatepark from 12-4 to skate, be together, mourn, love, in a safe, inclusive space. Kids, teens, adults, everyone gathering in a joyful manner to conquer fear with love.”
“With schools closed, we're opening our doors for FREE Community Open Gym on Monday and Tuesday from 12-3 PM. We hope to offer children a familiar place to play, move, and simply be kids while families come together. All families are welcome, no membership required.”
Monday registration & waiver · Tuesday registration & waiver
“In light of no school on Monday and Tuesday, we at MacDougall training, would like to open our doors to anyone looking to get some physical activity in. We will have a donation bucket for anyone willing to help, all proceeds will go to supporting Silver Rail.” Full access to their cage, training equipment and gym.
“The Earth Room will be open for prayers, reflection, tea, and connection. You may bring an item for the community altar.” Hosted by Hanai Foundation.
“With kids out of school on Monday, we want to offer a welcoming space where they can move, play, connect with friends, and simply be kids. And for parents who still need to get work done, we'll be setting up tables in our yoga studio so you can bring your laptop and work while your kids play nearby. Our wonderful coaches will be helping monitor the gym!”
This is not a drop-off event, and space is limited, so pre-register. Also Monday morning: childcare during the 9:15 a.m. Yoga Strong class for ages 10 months–8 years, with limited spots, an additional fee and pre-registration required.
“We will be at The Grove from 2-4pm on Monday, October 19th, with art supplies and materials for making cards. Anyone is welcome to stop by and show love for the students and families of Silver Rail or enjoy the company of our Bend community.”
Donations and cards can also be given to the Silver Rail PTO to be passed on to families.
“Join us Monday, October 19th for Crisis Support & Connection. Families can connect, learn about crisis support resources, and build community together. Refreshments and children's play spaces will be available.”
Hosted by Central Oregon Disability Support Network (CODSN) with High Desert Education Service District. Questions: 541-548-8559 or info@codsn.org.
“100% of all drink sales at On Tap will go directly to support the families whose lives have been forever changed by the tragedy at Silver Rail Elementary. Please help support our community.” From On Tap.
Sno Ball Express will be at On Tap from 11 a.m. too: “We'll be donating 100% of our sales that day to support those affected.”
“We're tagging along with the On Tap crew in offering a free show next week Monday, October 19th, from 4pm-5:30pm for the On Tap Locals Day in which On Tap will be donating their proceeds to the families affected by this horrific incident. We will be accepting cash tips during our show and 100% of those tips will be donated to the affected families as well.” From DUBb Central Music.
See DUBb Central's post on Facebook · On Tap's post on Instagram · Sno Ball Express's post on Instagram
“Join us to honor our collective grief, find comfort in community, and cultivate healing through gentle breathwork, guided meditation, energy healing, and Kundalini mantra meditation.” Led by Natalie Colvin and Heather Luna. Donations accepted, with 100% benefiting Moms Demand Action Oregon.
“In the wake of the heartbreaking tragedy at Silver Rail, we (Zaki and Josiah, PBMS Students) have decided we want to do something positive during our time away from school. Rather than letting tragedy define our community, we want to spend Tuesday, October 20, spreading love and kindness in remembrance and honor of all of us who have been affected. We're inviting fellow students, sports teams, families, educators, community organizations, businesses, and neighbors all around the country to join us in a Day of Love & Kindness through individual acts of kindness and organized community service.”
The organizers are also hosting a community Zoom planning meeting for anyone who wants to organize a service project, volunteer, spread the word, connect them with partners or share an idea. They ask that you call, text and email the invitation to anyone you know. This is a student-led, community-supported effort and is not sponsored or organized by Bend-La Pine Schools.
“In light of the tragic events that have impacted our sweet mountain town, Sarah Swoffer and I have decided to offer this month's CELEBRATE n ELEVATE gathering at NO COST. More than ever, we believe in the power of coming together, supporting one another, and creating space for connection, reflection, and community.”
“Join us for a heart-centered gathering of women as we reflect on where we've been, release what no longer serves us, and plant the seeds for what we want to see bloom in our lives.”
“We'll have pizza, food, arts and crafts, quiet spaces, and opportunities to connect and support one another. Come for a little while or stay as long as you'd like. There is no expectation to participate in anything. Just know that we are here for you.” Hosted by Big Brothers Big Sisters of Central Oregon, a program of J Bar J Youth Services.
“Share, listen, and embrace grief through story, song, poetry, and art. In the spirit of Día de Muertos, we come together to remember, honor, and celebrate the lives of those we have lost. ... No pressure, just open hearts and an open mic. Come as you are and let your voice be heard.”
A collaboration between the Open Arts Center, Día de Muertos Bend and professionals attending the Oregon Suicide Prevention Conference. To sign up to share, add a “performance ticket” when you RSVP. Refreshments and snacks provided.
Regular dining service. Sales are matched by the Malarkey family and a local donor, so every $1 spent becomes $3 donated to Silver Rail families and teachers. Reservations strongly recommended. Gift card purchases before Wednesday also count.
“Pubs were created to be gathering places for communities, and that is exactly what I hope we can be. A place where people can come together, support one another, and talk about what they're feeling, whether it's good, bad, sad, angry, happy, or anything in between.” 100% of all sales and donations that day, every dollar spent and not just the profit, go to the families who have experienced loss, or a charity of their choosing. From co-owners Steve and Marissa Augustyn, whose three sons have all attended Silver Rail.
“Because we are stronger together, GoodLife Brewing & Cascade Lakes Brewing are stepping up to completely match all donations.”
See their post on Instagram · GoodLife Brewing's post on Instagram
“Fill the tee sheets to support Silver Rail! All green fees Thursday, October 22nd will be donated to support Silver Rail Elementary School.”
“Sometimes the best thing we can do is come together and sing. Join your community on Friday, October 23, from 6–7:30 PM at Commonwealth Pub as we raise our voices together through familiar songs celebrating hope, love, resilience, and the power of community. No singing experience needed. Just come as you are, bring your heart, and share in the comfort and joy of music.” With KPOV 88.9 FM.
“Saturday, October 24th, we're opening the studio for a FREE Community Ride. Come as you are. Clip in, ride beside your neighbors, and take 45 minutes to be together in the dark. As a studio, we'll also be making a $250 donation to the Silver Rail PTO on behalf of our StarCycle Bend community. If you'd like to make a donation of your own, we'll have a QR code available throughout the studio this week.”
“This Saturday, 10/24, Handel's Bend will be hosting a Day of Support. We are donating 100% of all sales from open to close directly to the Silver Rail Community.” Their flyer also points to silverrailpto.org/donate.
“Next Saturday, 10/24, we'll be hosting our 2nd Annual Pumpkin Painting Party here at Dry Canyon Club from 1–7 PM, and 100% of the proceeds from our sales will be donated to the families of Silver Rail. Pumpkin painting is completely FREE for anyone who wants to participate. We invite kids, families, and even adults to join us for the costume contest, trick-or-treating around the lot, and an afternoon spent together as a community.”
“We are donating ALL sales, not just profits, to our Alta's school. Pumpkins will be $10 & all sales will go to Silver Rail. All food and drink sales will go to Silver Rail too. Pumpkin theme will be purple, silver & black in support of her school.”
“We are hosting a fundraiser 5k race in response to the school shooting on October 15th to support Silver Rails Elementary and the families affected. This is a donation-based event, kids are welcomed to participate and costumes are highly encouraged to wear during the race.” Their post also lists a kids costume contest at 11 a.m., trunk-or-treat setup during check-in, free cheese quesadillas for kids from Shark Mouth Fajitas, and sauna sessions for runners from HotWorx Bend. They need volunteers to help with the route: contact@blackcatmovementandtraining.com. The sign-up form is in their Instagram link and the donation form is on their website.
Community memorials with flowers, candles and notes are at the entrance to the Silver Rail parking lot (61530 SE Stone Creek Ln.) and at Drake Park downtown. The school itself remains an active investigation site.
Megan Lambert always sat at the table by the window at Dudley's Bookshop and Cafe. Now staff have filled it with matcha, flowers and messages to honor the Silver Rail Elementary teacher. Read more from Central Oregon Daily News
Free meals, drinks and other everyday help offered by local businesses.
Cascades East Transit on Bend fixed routes, Bend Dial-A-Ride and Community Connector Routes 24, 29 and 30.
For anyone directly affected, including students, families, school staff and first responders.
“With schools closed Monday and Tuesday, we're offering free sack lunches to Bend-La Pine students who need a meal. Stop by Jackson's Corner between 10am and 2pm either day.”
“Free food and beverages will be available as a gesture of care for our affected community members.”
“Our doors are open. We welcome your tears and conversations. We welcome your silence. We welcome any version of you. If you feel alone, let us be a safe space to be near others. If you need to step away during the gatherings downtown over the coming days, please know you are welcome here. No purchase. No expectation. Just loving on each other and being together. If we can offer comfort to your kiddo in the form of a hot chocolate or cider on the house, just let us know.”
“We would like to show our support by offering FREE SLICES for any family involved as well as ALL FIRST RESPONDERS AND LAW ENFORCEMENT OFFICERS. We will always support this amazing community and are here to serve you to our fullest ability.”
Free meals off the kids menu, now through Oct 31. “Because sometimes it's not about a grand gesture. Sometimes it's about a warm meal, a place to gather, and one less thing to worry about.”
Free meals for kids all weekend at the Bend Tasting Room & Restaurant: a hamburger or cheeseburger, chicken strips, or grilled cheese, each with fries. “Come use our space as you need, a place to gather, grieve and be with loved ones.”
“To anyone in our community who needs somewhere to go right now, our doors are open. Whether it's a child who needs a little sweetness, a parent who needs a quiet moment, or a teacher who just needs a place to sit and breathe, you are welcome here.”
“Free drinks all weekend for anyone who works in schools, first responders, police, firefighters, and anyone at all who wants a free drink...no questions asked. We lift each other up together.”
Free chicken soup “and a place for anyone who needs somewhere to sit, gather, or simply be around others. ... You don't need a reason to come in. Everyone is welcome.”
“This weekend, our doors are open. All sauna, cold plunge, and floats are free of charge through Sunday for anyone who needs somewhere quiet to be.” Book any session through their website at no cost, no promo code needed, or call if you have trouble. First-timers should arrive a few minutes early to fill out a waiver.
“All kids eat FREE. No purchase necessary. We're bringing in our board games from home, coloring books, and activities for the little ones. Our doors are open to any family who needs a comfortable, welcoming place to get out of the house, spend time together, or simply be surrounded by community. If you know a parent or family affected by this tragedy and want to bring them a comforting meal, the food is on us.”
“HIIT Logic Bend West, Tumalo, and Redmond are offering free workouts Monday and Tuesday to anyone who needs an hour for themselves and a supportive community around them. Come move, breathe, sweat, and be with people who care. Whether you want to talk or simply work out alongside others, there's a place for you here. No pressure. Just community and sweat.”
HIIT Logic Bend East is offering free workouts both days too: “If you need a place to move, breathe and be around people who care, you're welcome here.”
Complimentary rooms for visiting family members and close friends of those affected. Contact Jacob Robles at 458-600-1999 ext. 502 or Jacob.Robles@arkhospitality.com.
For Monday and Tuesday, Oct 19–20, and beyond. Please check with each one before heading out.
Source: Bend-La Pine Schools Silver Rail Community Information Hub
“Bend FC is offering a FREE Community Day Camp, October 19–23, for Silver Rail students and other children in our community who could benefit from this opportunity.” Soccer, games, activities and time with friends, led by Bend FC staff. No soccer experience needed, and you do not have to be part of Bend FC. Come for one day, two days or the whole week.
Held at the Bend FC Soccer Complex or Futsal Center; the final location is emailed to registered families Sunday evening, Oct 18. Some families report joining a waitlist. Questions: Brady Brent, brady.brent@bendfc.com.
“Families of Silver Rail- Let us know if you need drop in care. We are here to support and encourage. Yes we take school age kids. PM our business page so we can get details sorted out. We are sorry you are going through so much. Space is limited and we will support with what space we have.”
“Wild Bunch in Bend is happy to help with FREE childcare needs.”
No School Nature Days: “For families whose children attend Silver Rail Elementary, we would like to offer one of our upcoming October No School Nature Days completely free of charge. Time outdoors can offer a little breathing room when the world feels overwhelming: space to move, to play, to be held by the natural world, and simply to be a child.” Use code SILVERRAIL when registering.
Thursday Homeschool Program: “We have a couple of remaining spaces in our Thursday Wilderness Adventure and Archery Homeschool Program for ages 6–12. If your child attends Silver Rail and you would like to join us, one of those spots is yours, free of charge.” Email info@wildheartnatureschool.com to join.
“Kids’ Corner Childcare at Juniper Swim and Fitness Center is a playful, nurturing and safe environment for children ages six months to eight years old while their parents and caregivers take in all that Juniper has to offer. Participants at Kids’ Corner will enjoy arts and crafts, reading, creative play and cooperative games while you swim, workout or just relax.”
Mornings, ages 6 months–6 years: Tue and Thu 8–11:45 a.m. · Sat 8–11 a.m.
Afternoons and evenings, ages 2–8: Mon and Wed 4–7 p.m. · Tue and Thu 5:15–7 p.m.
Fees: single visit $12 for ages 6–23 months, $10 for ages 2–8, paid at the front desk. 10-visit passes save 15%.
First-time visitors fill out a form at the front desk. Bring a labeled water bottle and a peanut-free snack. Call 541-706-6191 to check same-day space.
Bend Park & Recreation District childcare · Juniper Swim & Fitness
“For those of you in Bend needing or giving free childcare in Bend while schools are closed.” Shared by @lovinlifeoutside.
Form for families looking for childcare · Form for families able to provide free childcare · Their post on Instagram
Doors open to anyone who needs a place to gather, find comfort or be around community. Children welcome.
GoFundMe keeps a hub of fundraisers its Trust & Safety team has verified. Checking there first is the safest way to give to individual families.
Run by Bend-La Pine Schools. Supports immediate and ongoing recovery needs for the Silver Rail community.
All Silver Rail fundraisers GoFundMe has verified, updated as more are confirmed.
For the family of 5-year-old Rhoam Summer. Organized by Sophia Sanders with Adriana Aquarius and Lillian Jolly. Covers household expenses so the family can grieve without added worry. Verified by GoFundMe.
Organized by Sophia Sanders. Preferred drop-off is 5–6 p.m.; email the organizer through the Meal Train page for the address. Check the calendar for open dates. The family's favorite restaurants include Thai Table, Panda Express, El Rodeo, Osaka, Five Guys, Bogies, Wendy's, Dairy Queen and Subway.
“Rhoam's parents would be grateful for drawings, crafts or artwork of sharks and/or dinosaurs. Rhoam was a huge lover of big teeth and ‘misunderstood’ animals. These representations of his favorite animals will be used to help with his celebration of life ceremony.” Handmade only, no AI.
For the family of Saylor Graham, the 7-year-old student injured in the shooting. Organized by Trisa Lovejoy on behalf of Danielle Graham. Covers hospital bills, lodging, transportation and lost income while both self-employed parents are with Saylor.
For Becky Drury, the educational assistant injured in the shooting, and her husband, Will. Organized by Annie Moseley. Covers medical care and expenses as she heals.
For Kaylub Giamanco, the Silver Rail parent who stopped the shooter, and his family. Covers therapy, lost income and living costs.
Directs money to local partners for students, families, educators and others affected, as needs emerge.
GoFundMe organized by Brian Malarkey for Silver Rail families and teachers, alongside the Oct 21 dinner listed above.
“We would love for you to come in and grab a coffee, a tea, or even a beer this Monday, October 19th in support of the people impacted by the events at Silver Rail. 100% of all sales will be donated straight to the victims families, and all others who were affected.” Coffee, tea, pastries, beer, wine and more.
“Porchlight, like so many incredible local businesses, wants to give back. This Monday, October 19th, we will be donating 100% of proceeds to the affected families. Please join us in honoring the victims and Silver Rail Elementary.”
“Join us in supporting Silver Rail Elementary and the Bend Lapine School District this Monday and Tuesday as we will be donating 100% of coffee and tea sales.” Proceeds go to the Silver Rail PTO and Bend-La Pine Schools.
“A fundraiser to provide children and community members with books to help everyone navigate their unthinkable loss.” Organized by Kelsey Melton with Roundabout Books. All donations go toward books that will be distributed to local school libraries.
“BEAM is a small nonprofit that provides relationship-centered, trauma-informed educational and social-emotional support to children in Bend, Oregon. For many of our students, BEAM is a place where they have found friendship, safety, acceptance, and belonging. BEAM has been housed at Silver Rail Elementary School, and we are now needing to relocate.” Funds cover rental deposits, moving costs and supplies for a new space. Organized by Karen Bures for the BEAM Team.
“After unspeakable tragedy, help remind our students and teachers that they are loved and supported. Send cards, letters, drawings, and messages of encouragement from anywhere in the world!” The Silver Rail PTO's goal is to cover the hallways with love when students go back to school.
Exclusive Imports Auto Repair and Jessica Anderson State Farm are partnering with local businesses to collect new, unopened therapeutic and sensory toys for Silver Rail students. They're collecting new toys in original packaging, fidget toys, squishies, pop-its, stress balls, new stuffed animals, coloring books, crayons, art supplies, and other calming and comfort items. New, unopened items only.
Bend: Jessica Anderson State Farm, Rebel Rose Tattoo Company, A Bit Less Tack, Central Oregon Aesthetics, Rebel Wax Studio, Carpet One Flooring, Jerry's RV, Leapin' Lizards Toy Company, The Little Gym of Bend, Wilco Farm Store, Walmart, Carter's Bend, Top Pin Archery (SE 27th St.)
La Pine: Exclusive Imports Auto Repair, La Pine Community Health Center, Books, Boxes and BS, Capell's Western & Workwear, Legend Cider, American Legion Post 45, Figaro's Pizza, T&S Espresso, Mutley Crew
Sunriver: First Interstate Bank Sunriver branch (matching all toys donated there), T&S Espresso in the Sunriver Marketplace
Redmond: Local Paws, Kooki, Beyond the Ranch Antiques, Walmart
Tumalo: Beyond the Ranch Antiques
Mail toys to: Jessica Anderson State Farm, Attn: Silverrail Elementary Toy Drive, 63830 Clausen Rd., Ste. 100B, Bend, OR 97701
“Help bring a little comfort and joy to the students and families of Silver Rail Elementary affected by the tragic shooting in Bend.” Donations needed: new, unwrapped toys for children ages 5–12, plus books, games, art supplies and gift cards.
Donate from your BottleDrop Green Bag account online, or turn in containers at any BottleDrop redemption center.
Two Suns Art Studio, Whimsy with a Purpose and Open Arts Center are assembling art kits for every Silver Rail Elementary student. Donations go through Open Arts Center and come with a tax receipt.
The county is looking for qualified mental health professionals, plus donated food, refreshments and practical supplies for response and recovery efforts.
Official updates
School schedule, support sessions and district updates.
Updated list of free support services and local resources.
Sign up for official incident updates.
Counseling and support
“Oregon State University - Cascades, located in Bend, Oregon, offers no-cost telehealth and in-person counseling to community members through the university’s graduate counseling clinic.” Sessions are led by graduate students under faculty supervision and are recorded for training.
“Come as you are. You're welcome to spend time with a horse, visit our farm animals, sit outdoors, or simply enjoy a little peace and quiet. We're setting up extra seating and quiet gathering spaces so there's room for everyone.” Stop by the welcome table near the office to check in, or contact them in advance. Open to first responders and their families, students, parents, teachers and school staff, with someone to talk with and help finding mental health services. “There is no expectation to take part in an activity or share your experience.”
“Connected Path Therapy Services is offering three free, 50-minute therapy sessions to Silver Rail staff and family members who do not have insurance. If you're interested, please reach out through connectedpath-therapy.com to discuss availability and whether my services are a good fit for your needs. Please use the website rather than sharing personal information in comments or social media messages.” From Angelica Nelson, LPC.
“During this tragic time, if anyone in the Bend community needs support from a licensed therapist, please feel free to reach out - I am happy to listen - no charge.” From Kirsten Siewert, M.A.
“Paw 2 paw will be offering our therapy dog team immediately for any families, children or community who would like extra support. Please DM us or call/ text 541-588-0937”
Available when students return Wednesday, and for as long as needed, according to the superintendent.
Talking with kids
I want to thank Katie London Miller, who is a reader and a therapist in Redmond, for offering this information to the BFL community about how to process what’s happening and how to talk to your children.
From Mosaic, with information from Lindsey Overstreet, Behavioral Health Manager. “You don’t need to have every answer or say everything perfectly. These suggestions can help you begin an honest, age-appropriate conversation and remind your child that they are loved, supported and able to come to you with questions.”
From Mosaic’s Director of Behavioral Health, Rachel Gerken, LPC. Covers common reactions in adults, children and teens, when to get more help, talking with kids, caring for yourself, and a list of local crisis lines.
From Bend-La Pine Schools. Also in Spanish.
From Central Oregon Pediatric Associates (COPA), in English and Spanish. Covers how to talk with kids after a traumatic event, common reactions in kids and teens, a script for explaining a school shooting to children with autism or learning differences, and self-care for parents.
A printable grief book for kids from COPA. Also in Spanish (Mi Libro del Duelo).
The National Grief Center for Children & Families, based in Portland. Free tip sheets and guides for supporting grieving kids and teens.
Tips for families and educators from the National Association of School Psychologists.
From the National Child Traumatic Stress Network.
From Sandy Hook Promise.
Reading list
A 45-item staff list for parents, caregivers and community members, with books from youngest readers to oldest. The library notes that books for younger children are best read with a supportive adult who can answer questions. A few from the list:
A booklist to support children processing grief, fear, anxiety and the emotions that come after a loss. The full list is linked in Roundabout's Instagram bio, and they plan to add more for upper elementary and teen readers. Roundabout also invites anyone who needs a moment of community or a quiet place to read to stop by the store. No purchase is ever necessary. Titles on the list include: