Fundraiser in memory of Gabby Petito aims to combat domestic violence
The money raised at the event is to provide resources to help prevent tragedies often linked to domestic abuse.
Residents gathered in West Babylon Sunday afternoon to hold a fundraiser in memory of the late Blue Point native Gabby Petito.
The money raised at The Gabby Petito Foundation event is to provide resources to help prevent tragedies often linked to domestic abuse.
Participants also aimed to raise awareness of domestic violence.
"I can't believe how many people came. It's so wonderful to see support from everyone. It was great," said Mary Wickman, Petito's grandmother.
Since Petito's 2021 death at the hands of her late boyfriend, Brian Laundrie, the foundation has been on a mission to educate the public about domestic violence, provide resources to help support domestic violence survivors as well as advocate for families whose loved ones are still missing.
"If we could save one more life from violence or death, that's what matters to me," Wickman said.
Prizes and gift baskets were donated to the event to help raise money for the foundation. The proceeds raised through the fundraiser will go directly to fight against domestic abuse.
Petito's family members did not have a specific target amount they wanted to raise for the event. However, they did say the support of the community, volunteers and the 50 Yard Line Sport Bar, which, organized the event, helped make this fundraiser successful.
The Petito family said they will continue to fundraise both locally and around the country in their mission of supporting domestic abuse survivors.
