Club Paradise in Asbury Park has raised more than $22,000 that will be sent to the Pulse Victims Fund to support people needing financial assistance in the wake of the devastating mass shooting in Orlando, Florida.
“I am still in shock about how much money we raised. And I am happy people felt comfortable coming out after the Florida event,” Club Paradise manager Joseph “Jo Jo” Crisci said earlier this week.
He said that when there is a good cause people, both gay and straight, tend to turn out and support it.
Between Monday and Friday last week, the club raised $22,309 that will be sent to the Pulse Victims Fund, which is being administered by Equality Florida, the state’s lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) civil rights organization.
“The money will be used to help Pulse victims with immediate and long-term health care and funeral expenses,” Crisci said.
Funds were raised through silent auctions, a $5 door charge, and tips donated by 18 drag queen performers. Tips were also matched by the Sutton Realty Group, based in Avon, and other sources.
“Money basically came from across the board, mostly gay but with straight supporters as well,” he said.
