MCKEES ROCKS, Pa. — The family of a local mother who died Dec. 8 after being shot in October is getting help for the holidays.
>> Balloon release held for mom who died after McKees Rocks shootout
Dominique Smith was just 38 years old and left behind six kids, ranging in age from 22 to 6.
“October 26th is the day that changed my life,” Melanie Hines said. Her daughter and son were both shot in McKees Rocks that day.
>> Man dead, 3 other people injured after shootout in McKees Rocks
“It’s been pure hell. I thought my daughter was gonna survive. I did. She was talking and seemed like she was getting better,” Melanie said.
She now takes care of those six kids.
“One of them said ‘we have an angel now. My mom’s an angel.’”
Melanie says her daughter used to go “all out” for Christmas, but she hasn’t had the strength to follow in her footsteps. That’s where Tree of Hope steps in.
“Her daughter’s life was very valuable,” Adrienne Young said. She founded Tree of Hope in her son’s memory 25 years ago.
“We look forward to seeing them and making sure they have everything they need for Christmas,” Young said.
This family will be one of four hundred Tree of Hope is helping this year. They focus on kids who have lost a parent to gun violence.
“She’s an angel. She’s an angle. So, there are good people still in the world,” Melanie said of Adrienne and Tree of Hope.
Dominque’s youngest kids will be taking part in the event Friday, December 20th at 6pm at Eastminster Presbyterian Church.
If you’d like to help or learn more, call 412-361-7788.
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