$125,000 raised to help victims of East Village explosion

EAST VILLAGE (WABC) -- Donations have been growing for victims of the deadly East Village explosion and building collapse.

So far, the Mayor's Fund to Advance New York City has raised $125,000. Of that, Google and its employees have given $25,000.

Meanwhile, Live Nation has committed to matching donations of patrons at its Irving Plaza and Gramercy Theater venues up to $10,000.

The Mayor's Fund launched the fundraising campaign on March 27 to coordinate direct financial support for those impacted by the tragedy.

So far, the city says it has received over 350 contributions from everyday New Yorkers, totaling more than $50,000 - the majority of which were donated by individuals contributing amounts ranging from $5 to $15,000.

"It is truly characteristic of our city to join together in the face of adversity, and to show compassion and love to our fellow New Yorkers when they need it most - and these combined efforts of everyday New Yorkers and community and corporate partners are no exception," said Mayor de Blasio. "Whether they are giving a little or giving a lot, the people of this city clearly have each other's backs. The donations we've seen in recent days prove yet again that a tragedy that affects some New Yorkers touches us all."

Beginning Monday, as emergency response services begin to phase out, the Mayor's Fund will collaborate with Lower East Side Ready to administer long-term case management and direct financial assistance for individuals and families who resided in the five buildings impacted by the blast.

Those buildings include 123 Second Avenue, 121 Second Avenue, and 119 Second Avenue (a.k.a. 45 E. 7th Street) - all of which were completely destroyed - and 125 Second Avenue and 41 E. 7th Street, which were both severely damaged. These five buildings include 63 residential units, 15 of which were destroyed and 48 of which were damaged.

Those affected and wishing to seek assistance and support can contact LES Ready at 212-533-2541 to learn more. New Yorkers who wish to contribute to the effort should call 311 or visit the Mayor's Fund to Advance New York City website: http://www.nyc.gov/fund.