ORLANDO, Fla. – Hundreds of people gathered in Thornton Park Thursday night for a Latin street party thrown by the owner of the Pulse nightclub.
Barbara Poma told News 6 she wanted to raise money for her employees, all of whom have been out of work since the shooting on June 12. She also said she wanted to give back to the community that has stood by her through the darkest of times.
"I believe it's really important to do events like this to show that Pulse is still alive," she said. "I think it's good for our community. I think it's good for keeping our community together."
People who turned out donated an average of $20 per person to get inside the street party. Inside, they listened and danced to salsa and raggaeton music.
They also bought T-shirts, bracelets and more. All of the proceeds go to the Fund for Pulse.
"I want to thank (the people of Orlando) for their love, their generosity and their time," Poma said. "I want them to know that we as a staff, and me personally, are overwhelmed with the cards we received."
Poma said she and her staff met at a picnic table Wednesday to read some of the cards and letters they had received. She said it was part of the way they are moving through the pain of the tragedy together.
Friday, Poma said she's flying to New York, where she will be part of the gay pride celebration this weekend.
"They know what it's like to be at the center of something. Whether it be gay-related or not, there's a community. I just think it's time to be together," Poma said.
Another vigil will be held at 6 p.m. Friday at the Dr. Phillips Center for Performing Arts. The event is sponsored by the Hispanic Chamber of Commerce, and attendees are encouraged to wear white.