As the death toll continues to rise in the aftermath of the attacks in Paris, details of the attacks continued to emerge. Terrorists, some with bombs strapped to them, some with AK-47s, attacked sites across the city. But even as the full horror continued to become clear, support swelled around the city and beyond.
For those concerned about loved ones, or those in Paris wishing to assure friends and family of their whereabouts, Facebook launched a feature allowing users to let their network know they are safe.
As President François Hollande urged those in the city to seek shelter, the hashtag #porteouverte allowed users to find Parisiens willing to open their homes to provide refuge for those in need.
The sentiments #prayforparis and #peaceforparis rippled across Twitter, many accompanied by a poignant image of the Eiffel Tower in a CND symbol.
Buildings around the world, including the Empire State Building in New York, Wembley Stadium in London and Rio de Janeiro’s “Cristo Redentor” statue lit up in France’s national colors of red, white and blue to show their solidarity with the victims and the city of Paris.
Taylor Swift tweeted “Look for the helpers,” a sentiment that echoed across social media.
Ways to donate
While few organizations have an immediate way to respond to those affected by the attacks, there are many organizations that operate in the city and could use donations:
The International Federation of Red Cross and Red Crescent Societies were born in Paris, and continue to operate there. People everywhere urged those concerned to donate to the organizations.
Another organization whose roots are in France is Médecins Sans Frontières, or Doctors Without Borders. You can donate to their work in France and around the world here.
Americans in Paris were urged to call 001 202 501 4444 for information and assistance.