In the aftermath of the mass shootings that shocked three U.S. cities in the timespan of one week, activists, celebrities, and civilians have used their various platforms to demand action and funnel resources into the communities that have been devastated by violence. Among those sending aid is Lady Gaga, who has announced she will "fully fund" 160 classroom projects in El Paso, Texas, Dayton, Ohio, and Gilroy, California.
The A Star is Born actress shared the news on Friday, telling fans she is working alongside her Born This Way foundation and partnering with crowdfunding platform DonorsChoose.org to support 14 classroom projects in Dayton, 23 in Gilroy, and 125 in El Paso.
"My heart goes out to those who were taken from us too soon and to their families, loved ones, and communities who are left to grieve," Gaga wrote on Facebook. "In this moment, I want to channel my confusion, frustration, and fury into hope. Hope that we are there for each other and for ourselves."
According to CBS, the funding will go towards educational tools on emotional regulation, age-appropriate books, and creative resources for photography and painting. All of the resources provided will give educators, "access to the support they need to inspire their students to work together and bring their dreams to life."
The singer also used the announcement to urge those struggling in the aftermath of the tragedies to prioritize their mental health, reach out for help, and check in on their loved ones.
"We cannot turn away from ourselves," she told her fans. "We cannot turn away from our loved ones. We need each other. Don’t turn away."
For more information on how you can contribute to Lady Gaga's initiative, click here.
