Fund created for Newtown Families

(WTNH) -- The United Way of Western Connecticut has launched a support fund to benefit families of the Sandy Hook school shooting.

On a special webpage created by the group, it says "United Way of Western Connecticut in partnership with Newtown Savings Bank has created the 'Sandy Hook School Support Fund' that will be able to provide support services to the families and community that has been affected."

Donations can be made in person at the bank, by mail or online donation.

For more details visit https://newtown.uwwesternct.org/ or call 800-461-0672.

The United Way fund is one of many being formed. However, before opening their wallets, donors should beware of scams.

"There are unscrupulous people who set up a website or a Facebook page and they'll try to take advantage of people's generosity and people's feelings. So, it's critically important that people give to a charity people know is real," said Anthony Maione, President and CEO of United Way Rhode Island.

While some are donating money, others are donating time.

About a half dozen Red Cross volunteers from Rhode Island have traveled to Connecticut, providing mass care assistance and counseling to families and first responders in Newtown.

"It's an opportunity to provide even a little bit of help in a time and situation like this," said Elizabeth McDonald, Rhode Island Chapter of the American Red Cross.