The Green Trails Elementary PTO has set up a PayPal account for anyone wanting to assist the Palmer family with funeral expenses for their daughter Maliyah Palmer.
Last Friday evening, the first-grade student died from an accidental gunshot wound. Principal Rene Sommers sent a letter to families of all students over the weekend.
“You know your child best, so we are hopeful you will be the first person to tell your child about Maliyah’s death,” Sommers advised, before sharing some tips.
“Show support, listen, encourage questions, and validate the child’s feelings,” Sommers advised. “Don’t use euphemisms. Equating death with sleep, ‘passing’ or ‘going away’ can cause confusion. It can also cause the child to be anxious about falling asleep or loved ones leaving on trips. Don’t overwhelm the child. Often children need simple facts, not long explanations.”
In addition to sending additional counselors and social workers to the school, the Parkway School District is working with Annie’s Hope – The Center for Grieving Kids. Annie’s Hope is available to district families at 314-965-5015 or http://www.annieshope.org.”
“Please keep Maliyah’s family in your thoughts and prayers,” Sommers asked district families.
To donate for funeral expenses, visit paypal.me/GreenTrailsPTO. In the notes section, indicate the donation is for the Palmer Funeral Fund.
