Not Your Average Joe's in Burlington is asking surrounding communities to help bring comfort to the families who lost loved ones in last week's tragic school shooting that killed 26 people, including 20 children.

The restaurant posted to its Facebook page:

"Our thoughts and prayers go out to the families and community of Newtown, CT. In [light] of the recent events, our Newburyport, Acton and Burlington locations are accepting donations of teddy bears to donate to the children and families affected by this horrible tragedy. If you live near or are by one of these restaurants, please consider donating. Their goal is to raise 550. Thanks for the consideration and support."

Patch is also collecting thoughts and prayers from readers to send to our Newtown Patch site. We are collecting pictures, video statements and photos of cards to show that their families are in our thoughts and in our hearts. Click here for all the details.

Do you know of any other ways people in Wilmington are organizing to help the victims? Let us know in the comments or email Matthew.Schooley@patch.com and we will help spread the word.