HUNTINGTON — Donations have poured in from as far north as parts of Canada to accounts set up for the families of the 15 miners trapped, killed or injured in the Crandall Canyon Mine.
On Aug. 10, four days after the initial cave-in, an account was set up at Zions Bank by Huntington Mayor Hilary Gordon. She didn't want the dozens affected by the tragic loss to be forgotten in a time of need.
She said that a lot of checks and cash were coming in to the city, specifically designated to cover the cost of meals for the families affected. Because businesses throughout the state had already provided food for the families, the money was put into the account for the relatives of the lost miners "to use however they need," Gordon said.
"Those who know about the money coming in are almost overcome by the generosity," she said. "They are so appreciative, but I don't know that all of them even realize what is going on."
Gordon set up additional accounts at Zions for the nine families impacted by the second collapse, on Aug. 16, which killed three rescuers and injured others.
"The public response to the donation accounts has been absolutely wonderful," said Joel Hatch, Huntington branch manager for Zions Bank. "I'm not surprised by the amazing response from those in our surrounding counties, because whenever we experience a tragedy our communities really step up."
Hatch, however is more surprised by the national attention the accounts have been getting.
"I am really impressed with the donations we have received from people in various states, including Florida, Oklahoma, Texas, Ohio, West Virginia and more," she said. "Also, many people are sending heartfelt letters to the miners' families inside their donation envelopes."
On average, Hatch said the local branch is receiving more than 30 deposits each day, which range anywhere between $1 to $1,000.
"It's very typical of our community," Gordon said, referring to a similar mine disaster that claimed many lives in 1984. "People pull together in times like these."
Wells Fargo Bank officials said that locals wanted a place to donate to all 15 families at once, in one account, thus resulting in their account, which is designated to be split equally 15 ways.
Surrounding communities of Castle Dale, Price and Helper have hosted events to benefit the families as well, drawing in thousands of dollars in donations. Helper City Councilman John Jones organized an auction and raffle in Helper that brought in more than $100,000 Friday night.
The response, he said, "was overwhelming."
Other accounts, including one at the Utah Power & Light Credit Union in Huntington, have also been opened to benefit the families.
The generosity, which Gordon said is both necessary and very welcome in a time of tragedy, has allowed the families to focus on taking care of other needs.
"I am certain it will help them and they will be grateful it is there," she said.
How to help
Donations to the Crandall Canyon Family Support Fund can be made at any Zions Bank or by calling 435-687-2425.
E-mail: wleonard@desnews.com