Tragedies like the one that befell South Florida last week can do more than take lives. They can destroy communities. That is, unless, the people, institutions, and even companies with vested interests in those communities step up.
A popular airline with local roots has accepted the challenge. Jet Blue has a hub at Ft. Lauderdale International Airport – just minutes from Parkland, Florida – and many of its crewmembers and staff live and operate in the Broward County area.
The day after the tragic shooting, Jet Blue sent a heartfelt tweet out in support of their Parkalnd, Florida neighbors.
We don’t just fly there. For nearly 5,000 crewmembers, Florida is home and all of us at JetBlue stand with South Florida. https://t.co/WEtzEkdwIX pic.twitter.com/0yqVH9fDPN
— JetBlue Airways (@JetBlue) February 16, 2018
Today, they went even further.
“We are deeply saddened by the news of Wednesday’s shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland,” their blog post opens, “and our hearts go out to the victims and their loved ones.”
Their offer of support isn’t limited to empty thoughts and prayers, however. Jet Blue is putting their money where their mouth is.
“We’re honored to be able to offer assistance to the Parkland community during this difficult time,” the blog post continues. “Jet Blue volunteers are available in the Family Assistance Center to book free air travel on JetBlue for victims’ families traveling to Parkland and provide access to free ground transportation with Lyft.”
Jet Blue has also teamed up with the Florida Panthers NHL hockey team to hold a blood drive.
As the community turns quickly from grieving toward gun control advocacy, FOX News and the right wing media have shamelessly abandoned the survivors, even going to low as to criticize them for speaking out. It’s wonderful to see at least one corporation isn’t intimidated by their onslaught of negative pressure.
