In January 2022, community members in West Valley City turned to digital fundraising to support the families of two young men killed in a shooting, according to community organizers. The efforts sought to cover funeral and memorial expenses for Tivani and 15-year-old Paula Tupou Tahi, following the tragic deaths of the youths.
Fundraising for Tivani
A fundraiser organized by Rachel Canham was established to assist with the funeral expenses for Tivani. The campaign, which was created on Jan. 15, 2022, saw significant community support, raising $16,608 of a $15,000 goal. This indicated the fundraiser had reached 111% of its initial target.
Canham, the organizer, expressed the profound grief felt by the community, stating that hearts have been shattered and the pain is suffocating. The organizer called for the community to band together to support the family during this time of need. The campaign received contributions from 339 donors, including Cody Livingston, who donated $150.
Support for the Tahi Family
A separate fundraising effort, organized by Sepi Lokotui on behalf of Luseane Fungalei, was created to support the family of Paula Tupou Tahi. According to the GoFundMe page, Tahi was killed on Thursday, Jan. 13, 2022, at the age of 15.
Tahi was the second oldest and only son of Sasa and Lata Tahi. He is survived by his parents and seven sisters: Melelupe, Eniselika, Elisepa, Analongo, Elesi, Tatyana, and Maikeli. The fundraiser was established to provide financial relief to the parents for funeral costs as people reached out to ask how they could help.
Community Response to Tahi Death
The fundraiser for Tahi surpassed its original financial goal, having raised $13,415 toward a $10,000 target. This represented 135% of the initial goal and was supported by 289 donors.
Notable contributors to the Tahi memorial fund included Gail Hess, who donated $100, and several others including Jim Brusatto and Alyssa Davidson. The organizer, Lokotui, noted that the level of support from the community has not gone unnoticed during this difficult time.
A Community in Mourning
Both fundraising efforts highlighted the community's response to the loss of young lives in West Valley City. Organizers for both campaigns requested continued prayers and thoughts for the families as they navigated the aftermath of these tragic events.
