Fundraiser launched for families of Forest Lake teens injured by driver

A new online fundraiser is raising support for the families of two Forest Lake Area High School track athletes who were hit by a driver last week.

Jase Blanchard and Sam Farinella, both 15, were struck in a crosswalk on Highway 61 at 202nd Street North the afternoon of Tuesday, April 30, according to the Minnesota State Patrol.

The teens were airlifted to Regions Hospital, with Farniella initially reported to be in critical condition.

District officials earlier this month confirmed both boys are expected to make a full recovery and remain in the hospital , with their families requesting privacy in the wake of the incident.

A new GoFundMe launched by Sarah Olson, of Hugo, aims to offer financial support to the Blanchard and Farninella families.

"On top of all of this, some of you may also know that the Faranella family lost their home to a house fire last fall," Olson wrote. "These families are in desperate need for their community to come alongside them and ease some of the burden these tragedies have left them with."

According to Olson, the funds raised will be used to help provide for the families' needs during their time at the hospital and to help "make the transition home a little bit easier."

As of Tuesday afternoon, just under $9,000 had been raised towards a $20,000 goal.

According to the patrol, alcohol is not believed to be a factor in the crash and the driver involved in the incident, an 84-year-old Lindstrom man, was not injured.