New Jersey community gathers for special needs fundraiser in honor of 4-year-old Enterovirus victim

HAMILTON, NJ (WABC) -- There was a heartwarming turnout in New Jersey for a special fundraiser held in honor of Eli Waller, a 4-year-old boy who died from Enterovirus D-68 last month.

The community gathered on Sunday in Hamilton Township to raise money for the "Smiles for Eli" fundraiser benefiting The First Day of School Foundation.

The foundation started by Andy Waller, Eli's father, focuses on helping students with learning disabilities like Eli.

"He was involved in special education; he benefited greatly from it," Waller said. "His teachers in school really helped him tremendously and his after-school activities, too."

Smiles of kids in costume filled the event in memory of Eli. The kids took photos at the Erica Haller Photo Studies for a photo fee of $10 to benefit the foundation.

"We're hoping to gather supplies like backpacks and outfits for kids as they are starting school," said Waller. He also noted that they want to try to provide tuition assistance for after-school activities.

Eli became the first confirmed fatality in the U.S. from the virus on Sept. 25.

He was a triplet. His two sisters were not affected.

In the days after his death, state, local and school officials worked to decontaminate his school where another child fell ill, but later tested

negative for the virus.

Health officials worked to calm the community through town meetings.

The First Day of School Foundation was founded almost immediately after Eli's death.