50949_WKBW_7_Problem_Solvers_658x90.png

Actions

Friends of Williamsville assault victim organize benefit

Posted at 11:44 PM, Jul 22, 2016
and last updated 2016-07-24 07:16:58-04

Gina Caputi-Terrana was beaten and nearly killed in her Williamsville home in June.  Now, friends and complete strangers are coming together to get the beloved school bus driver back on her feet.

"We thank the Lord that she's here today," Cherie Reeb said.  "She's been through a lot of trauma.  It's been a lot."

Reeb is one of Caputi-Terrana's friends that's helping organize a benefit on Sunday, July 24.  It's being held from 1-5pm at the Harris Hill Fire Hall in Clarence. Tickets for the benefit are $25.

 Reeb already created a GoFundMe page to help gather donations to cover medical expenses.

Caputi-Terrana is recovering at home and can't work her summer job as a bus driver in Buffalo.  Her friends say no one is sure when she'll be able to work again.  The money raised on Sunday will keep her on her feet while she focuses on recovering.

"That's why we decided on the fundraiser," Reeb explained.  "She's got enough to think about after going through that ordeal."

Organizers of the benefit are shocked to see just how much the community is coming together for Caputi-Terrana.

"It was very overwhelming," Colleen Clifford said.  Complete strangers and local businesses all stepped up to donate baskets, food and money.  "The love and support that people wanted to do for her was amazing."