People from around Orange County and beyond are chipping in cash, food and clothing to help a popular local bartender who's fighting for her life following a car crash.

It was tough Tuesday for staff at the Switch Inn on East Main Street in Middletown to prepare the evening's Cinco De Mayo celebration without their fearless leader, 31-year-old Samantha Giordano, aka "Sammy."

"Not having her during this day is disappointing," bartender Kate Katzmann said as she chopped limes for the evening's party.

Giordano was on her way to work Saturday on Scotchtown-Collabar Road when she lost control of her car, hit a tree, flipped the car and went unconscious. Her family said her injuries are extensive and she has not woken up.

The Switch Inn's owner, Josie Longstreet, said on Tuesday that Giordano has worked tirelessly to promote the bar, helping it build up a Facebook following of nearly 10,000 people, all while she has been pursuing a medical career and caring for her 7-year-old son, Ayden.

"She's a single mom, a nurse and the best bartender in Orange County," Longstreet said over the phone.

Giordano's family and colleagues are raising money for her online and planning fundraisers at the bar, including "Tequila for Sammy" on June 13.

The staff and owners want to make life manageable for Giordano and Ayden after her recovery, which could last more than a year.

"She's definitely the backbone of what the Switch Inn is," Katzmann said, "and she's the backbone of Middletown in general. She's a great person and everyone sees that and knows that."

The response has been staggering, drawing thousands in cash donations and free services.

A local contractor is even recruiting volunteers to help landscape Giordano's backyard for free.

The backyard cleanup is something Giordano has been wanting to do for Ayden, her friends said.

"Just as a person, she has a following. She has a big family in Middletown," Longstreet said. "She was born and raised here. The whole community is just coming together for her. It's really astounding and beautiful."

The bar continues to collect in-person donations daily and has raised close to $15,000 online.