A local nonprofit wants to help the children of a pregnant Chicago teen shot and killed this week.
United for a Cause hosts a donation drive from 6-8 p.m. Friday at St. Sabina’s, 7801 S. Throop St., to collect clothing, diapers, baby wipes and other necessities.
Charinez Jefferson, 17, of the 600 block of South Albany Avenue, was shot multiple times in the chest and head just after 10 p.m. Tuesday in the city's Marquette Park neighborhood, police said.
Her baby, delivered prematurely, continues to fight for his life, and doctors have expressed concerns about the newborn's mental and physical development. Jefferson had another 1-year-old child and was going to be a junior at Banner Therapeutic Day School.
"We at Ufac are stepping up to help this family out with the daily needs of these children," said organizer Dawn Valenti. "We have asked the community to step up as well."
Jefferson's mother, Debbie, said she has no idea what happened that night or why someone would shoot the expectant mother, but she doesn't believe her daughter was the intended target.
Chicago Police continue to search for the shooter.
“It’s just sad for two children that won’t grow up to know their mom," she said.
