Millions of dollars raised to help businesses and organizations along Lake Street

Efforts are in full swing to help businesses along Lake Street in Minneapolis rebuild and rebound from last week’s looting and rioting.

So far, tens of thousands of people have chipped in to to raise millions of dollars.

Wednesday, the Minnesota Transitions Charter School held a donations drive for families, students and others in need.

"Look at all the people coming together and meeting those needs, today feels great it’s uplifting to the soul," said Brian Erlandson, superintendent of Minnesota Transitions Charter School.

Less than a week ago, their school suffered property and water damage from the riots.

"We didn’t know whether or not to cry, express our rage or what. We looked inside and it was so painful," Erlandson said.

$3 million raised for Minneapolis businesses

But somehow, they’re able to move forward and give back even at a time when they’re down.

"Even when tragedy strikes us we’re here for our kids and we always have been and we always will be," said Shawn Fondow, principal at MTS Secondary.

That is just one example of how the community is stepping up for each other. The Lake Street Council organized a fund called "We Love Lake Street." So far, over 50,000 people have donated more than $4 million.

"The $4 million is just a start, we will need a lot more to rebuild," said ZoeAna Martinez, Lake Street Council community engagement manager.

Martinez said a committee is working on how the funds will be distributed and they want to assure everyone the process will be transparent.

"Those businesses know that we’re here for them, I’m here for them," Martinez said.

During times like these, generosity is contagious.

"It’s just beautiful, I mean, I’m shedding a tear right now as we talk," said Frederick Joyce, who lives in Robbinsdale.

While it will take time to heal, those who work near Lake Street and call this place home aren’t about to give up.

"We’re going to make a comeback, we’re going to do it here and it’s going to be better than ever," Erlandson said.

For more information on how you can help, visit welovelakestreet.com.