Crowdfunding for Eddy’s funeral

By Persis Abraham

Two crowdfunding campaigns are underway to raise money for funeral expenses for Eddy Dwyer, 24, who was stabbed to death on Harding Blvd. in Birch Cliff on April 23.

Eddy’s father, Edward Dwyer Senior, 58, was charged this week with second-degree murder.

One fundraising campaign was launched by Heather Edwards, who is a neighbor of the Dwyers in the 24-unit Birch Cliff Community Coop.

“We look out for each other and we support each other,” said Edwards.  “I’m a firm believer that it takes a village to raise a child and a community to support families too. That’s why I wanted to start the fundraiser because I know that this family needs support and they definitely need help with the funeral expenses.”

Edwards posted her campaign to Facebook and in three days she raised $1,065 from 19 different donors.

“So far we’ve done pretty fantastic.  I know that losing a child isn’t something that any parent should ever have to endure and I just know the mom [Rose Dwyer] needs help,” Edwards said.

Eddy Dwyer, second from right, at his Grade 8 graduation from Birch Cliff Public School.

Former classmate also raising money

A second crowd-funding campaign was launched by Chelsea Thomas, Eddy’s long-time friend and former classmate at Birch Cliff Public School.

In heart-touching paragraph on the website, she described Eddy as a compassionate and caring friend who loved animals and was quick to lend a helping hand to anyone.

“Since Eddy had such a big heart, I have faith. I hope this can make a difference for his family…I know the expenses are tough at this time. Anything helps,” Thomas said.

So far, Thomas’ website has raised $750 to help defray funeral costs.

Eddy Dwyer’s funeral is scheduled to take place next Saturday.

Edward Dwyer Sr. will appear in court at 1911 Eglinton Avenue East on Friday, May 1.

Donations are being accepted at these two websites:

http://www.gofundme.com/ss4w3g for Chelsea Thomas, friend of Eddy Dwyer Jr.

http://www.gofundme.com/t5n5nf5n8z for Heather Edwards, neighbor of the Dwyer family.