BOSTON -- A town has rallied behind a Norwood teen left paralyzed after fracturing two vertebrae in a high school hockey game last month.

NewsCenter 5's Kimberly Bookman reported that sophomore Matt Brown broke his neck when he went face first into the boards. After the crash, the community decided to take up a collection for Matt.

At Straight Stitch, they are giving away shirts and hats for a donation, and at Muggin' Muffin, they're asking diners for $2, and in turn they'll post a paper with Matt's hockey number in their window.

At Pizza Palace, customers are writing messages and the owner plans to donate a dollar for every well wish.

Norwood worker Rick Hennessey said he was quick to sign up.

"It's a town that pulls together. We have pride in the town, people, athletes, and I think when something like this hits home, a tragedy, everyone feels it," he said.

The town engraved Matt's number into a skating rink off Route 1 to show support for him.

A local car dealer is also using signs to post upcoming fundraisers and prayers for the hockey player.