The #TorontoStrong Fund has raised more than $1.5 million as of Friday evening, following the tragic events on Yonge St. earlier this week.

A white van mounted the sidewalk on Yonge near Finch Ave., and drove down the major street, deliberately hitting pedestrians, killing 10 and injuring 16 on Monday afternoon.

In the wake of the tragedy, people across the city and the country have been looking for ways to heal and move forward, and help others to do the same.

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The fund, which is named after the hashtag widely used online as the city reeled from news of the van rampage, was set up by the City of Toronto and the Toronto Foundation.

Mayor John Tory announced the fund on Tuesday at a news conference at Toronto police headquarters. The current goal is $2 million.

Readers can donate to the fund here. Donations can now also be made by texting “Toronto” to 80100. After texting 80100, donors will receive a text asking them to indicate the amount they wish to donate, as well as a confirmation text.

The website for the fund explains the money will be divided up in tiers, with priority given to immediate crisis support for survivors, families and witnesses.

That support will be provided through Victim Services, whose crisis counsellors and volunteers do everything from providing emotional support, to covering practical concerns such as dog-walking, calling employers, mobilizing support systems or getting food while a family member is grieving or sitting vigil at the bedside of a wounded loved one.

“We’re really there to make sure that nobody is suffering alone,” said executive director Bonnie Levine.

Then funds will be given to organizations and charities that address the aftermath and “ripple effect” on the city.

A memorial has sprung up along the stretch of Yonge Street in Toronto where Monday’s deadly van attack occurred. One resident who lives near Yonge and Finch says the area is usually very safe. (The Canadian Press)

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A number of corporations have joined in donating to the fund. Torstar Corporation, which owns the Toronto Star, donated $10,000 on behalf of its media outlets.

“This tragic incident has demonstrated the pain that can be inflicted on our city and our residents,” the website reads. “But it has also revealed Toronto’s strength, our compassion and our resilience. First responders fought to keep victims alive and protect bystanders from further violence. Civilians comforted and supported the victims even as they witnessed unspeakable horror. Hospital staff worked around the clock to save lives and heal physical and emotional injuries.

“Let’s lean on each other in these difficult times and show that we are all #TorontoStrong.”

On Sunday at 7 p.m. there will be a #TorontoStrong vigil in Mel Lastman Square to remember the victims of the attack.