Tragedy strikes & Lake Highlands responds
A woman was critically injured on Central Expressway in Plano, the apparent victim of a hit-and-run.
Following the arrest of the driver, the victim – who was unidentified at the time – was taken to the hospital in critical condition.
Word was released this morning that the woman, Trekessa Gordon-Matthews, passed away Sunday evening.
Matthews was the mother of two Lake Highlands students who attend White Rock Elementary and Lake Highlands High School, respectively.
Word traveled to Rob Poynor, Lake Highlands father and Executive Director of a new non-profit, Christian based group, The Family Shadetree.
Poynor was quick to respond.
"Whatever we can do for this family, to help put Tommy and the kids in people's line of sight – so they can help – we'll do it," said Poynor early this afternoon.
Tommy Matthews, the children's father, is also a Lake Highlands resident and attends the Greenville Avenue Church of Christ in Richardson.
"The Family Shadetree stemmed from need," said Poynor. "With one student in 2009, we stepped in to offer a hand up."
And according to Poynor, that's what this new agency is all about.
"Make no mistake, we are not about charity. This is not about hand-outs. We are ready to offer help and a hand up."
Most immediately, costs for the family will include a funeral for Trekessa and additional funds will go to help with rent, utilities and food costs.
"All of the money raised will go directly toward helping Tommy and his children."
"I just simply can't imagine what they must be going through right now," said Poynor.
"Sometimes life just kicks you into the ditch, and we're here to help people out of it."
To learn more about The Family Shadetree visit the group's website here.
Donations are currently being accepted and are fully tax deductible.
You can also follow updates on the agency's Facebook page.
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