BUFFALO, N.Y. — Saints Peter & Paul Orthodox Church was packed Monday night as neighbors, friends and strangers alike paid their respects to the family of 7-year-old Anthony Conti.

"It's the love of Lovejoy. I've lived here all my whole life, and when anything happens, Lovejoy comes together as a family and I wouldn't expect anything less," said family friend Lisa Swain.

Swain is among those lending the Contis a hand, offering them a place to stay until they get back on their feet.

"They're more than welcome to stay at my house with all five kids, them too. I don't care."

Father Vlad Zabkotskyy encouraged people to donate to a GoFundMe page for the family, which had already raised $12,000 by Monday night.

Clothing donations were also collected at the Mead Public Library and the Hennepin Center.

"The parents of the family have been a longtime member of this community, and very active," said Mead Library Librarian Beatrice Collett.

Swain says some of the items the family needs includes air mattresses, bedding, shoes and clothing... adding that they need more than material goods.

"Lots and lots of prayers, please, for the Conti family. They need all of the love and prayers they can get," Swain said.