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Community members are raising money to support the family of a 14-year-old Palo Alto student who died in a car collision in Union City earlier this month, according to a GoFundMe fundraiser started by her family.
Abigail Baca was reportedly sitting in the passenger seat of a car that was struck by a commercial truck at the intersection of Alvarado-Niles Road and Decoto Road in Union City on the morning of September 11, according to a Union City police report. Both drivers remained at the scene and cooperated with police.
Palo Alto Unified School District leaders, as well as Superintendent Jason Glass, offered grief support and mental health resources for students earlier this month following the loss.
Ivanna Baca, who is the student’s cousin, wrote in a GoFundMe statement that the funds will assist the “heartbroken” family after their “unimaginable loss.”
“Donations will help cover Abby’s funeral and memorial arrangements, including the expenses of bringing her home and other unexpected costs connected to honoring her life,” she wrote. “The family is still finalizing arrangements, and any support will help ease some of the financial pressure during this incredibly painful time.”
Her family hopes to raise $28,000 to cover arrangements. It had received nearly $25,000 as of Monday afternoon.
“If you are able, please consider donating or sharing this fundraiser,” Ivanna Baca wrote. “Every contribution, kind word, and prayer means so much to our family and will help Abby’s parents and siblings focus on being together, supporting one another, and honoring Abby’s life.”
The school district’s resources include options such as Uwill, a 24/7 virtual therapy offering through Classlink, and Care Solace, which connects local families to wellness providers at all hours of the day. Students can also access teen wellness center allcove Palo Alto, Monday through Friday from 10 a.m. through 7 p.m. for free or browse more resources through the district webpage.
“Grieving is a personal experience, and everyone may react differently,” Palo Alto Middle College Principal Emily Garrison wrote in a message to the school community. “It’s important to be respectful and understanding of each other’s feelings. Some may find solace in focusing on schoolwork, while others may need more time to process their emotions.”
