Classmates aid stricken family

ALBUQUERQUE (KRQE) - An outpouring of love and support for the families affected by a devastating New Year's Eve crash arrived Friday in the form of a check for over $5,000 Friday as well as clothes, coupons and toys.

The Valles-Vazquez family fund was set up by a concerned teacher and students at Whittier Elementary School, classmates of one of the children in the wreck.

Maria Vazquez was severely injured along with her son and nephew. Her husband died.

After the tragedy, and the loss of a critical source of income, the help comes at the right time.

"With my heart in my hand, I'd like to say thank you very much for everything that's been done for us," Maria Vazquez said. "I know now that my husband is in heaven, but from up there he's still supporting us."

This is not the end, there are additional fundraising events planned for the Valles-Vazquez family.

• Super Bowl cookout, 12-4 p.m., Saturday, YDI Main, 6301 Central NW.
• Taking Donations throughout this weekend at YDI Alamosa Site, 6900 Gonzales SW & YDI South Valley, 1710 Centro Familiar SW.
• Nonmonetary donations still accepted at Whittier Elementary School, 1110 Quincy NE.
• Checks and gift cards mailed to: APS Education Foundation, P.O. Box 25704, Albuquerque, NM 87125, or dropped off at APS Headquarters, 6400 Uptown NE, Suite 420.