HOLYOKE — A 12-year-old girl was struck by a car on Main Street as she walked to school early Friday morning, prompting Mayor Joshua A. Garcia to remind the public of safety guidelines that can help prevent such tragedies.

The mayor’s office said the sixth grader is being treated for serious injuries. Garcia, School Superintendent Anthony Soto, and Ward 2 City Councilor Carmen Ocasio went to the hospital to provide support for the child’s family, and the girl is expected to survive, the mayor’s office said.

Garcia is asking the community to respect the family’s privacy. He has started an emergency relief fund for the family. Donations can be made via Venmo @growholyoke, by PayPal to Greater Holyoke Chamber of Commerce, or by check to the Holyoke Chamber of Commerce, 177 High Street, Holyoke MA 01040.

The accident is under investigation. Additional details will be made available as they are released.

“When incidents like this happen, it’s an opportunity for all of us to reflect and remind ourselves of our responsibility to drive with care to prevent tragedies,” Garcia said.

The mayor reminded motorists to be extra vigilant when driving the city’s streets, especially now that school is back in session. Soto encourages parents and guardians to remind their children to use crosswalks, look both ways when crossing the street, and avoid distractions.

Soto added, “We all have a shared responsibility to see that our kids make it to school safely.”