Photo by hahatango

On Monday, Boston was struck with tragedy as two bombs exploded near the finish line of the Boston Marathon. With our office only two blocks away from the explosions, we witnessed first hand the devastation of  this horrific scene. At Charlesgate, our hearts and prayers go out to all those directly affected as well as the entire Boston community who will never forget the scenes from this day. We have compiled a list of resources that you can utilize to help as we rebuild and try to move forward in strength and unity.

One Fund Boston

Massachusetts Governor Deval Patrick and Boston’s Mayor Tom Menino says the city has established ‘One Fund Boston’. “At times like this we are one state, one city and once people,” Governor Patrick said. Boston based insurance company John Hancock has already committed $1 million to the fund, which will raise money for families most affected by the bombings.

Donate to Onefundboston.org

The Salvation Army

The Salvation Army deployed canteen trucks to the area to provide food. Officers have been dispatched to assist those in need. The Salvation Army has also established a specific fund for the victims in Boston and you can donate to it here.

Send in tips, cell phone video, photos

If you see something, say something. In the age of smartphones, the Boston Marathon was in no shortage of photographers and cameras at the time of the incident. And many who attended might have snapped a picture with a piece of evidence and not even know it.

• Witnesses or those who may have information should call the Boston Police Department (1-800-494-8477).
• If you have any visual images, like photos or video, or other information that could shed light on the deadly attacks, call the FBI’s hotline (1-800-CALL-FBI —prompt #3). The FBI said on its website, “no detail is too small.”

Blood donation

A statement from the DFCI/BWH Blood Donor Center: “The tragic events at the Boston Marathon have led to an overwhelming outpouring of support to the Blood Donor Center. If you’re considering donating blood or platelets, the center requests that you call to schedule a blood or platelet donation and consider scheduling your donation in the coming weeks to help us replenish and maintain the supply of blood products to meet the needs of patients at both Brigham and Women’s Hospital and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute. To schedule a donation, email blooddonor@partners.org with your preferred donation type (blood or platelets), days you prefer to donate, and a phone number.”

Offer A Place to Stay

Some marathon runners are stranded in Boston and need a place to stay. If you live in the area or are close to it and are willing to pick up people and open up your home, click here to find out how you can offer housing.

If you are ‘Safe and Well,’ please register to say so

The Red Cross “Safe and Well” page exists to let concerned friends and family know you’re OK. Sign in there if you are in the Boston area and someone might be worried about you. The Red Cross also urges you to update your social media pages, too.