September 11 Funds

Doling Out the Dough

Broken-hearted Americans have opened up their wallets and donated $1.4 billion to the victims’ families of September 11. Here’s a look at how the money is—and isn’t—being spent:

September 11th Fund

Established by the United Way of NYC and The New York Community Trust. Its celebrity telethon generated over $150 million in pledges. The fund’s director realizes he must make long-term plans as victims’ needs may not be apparent for years.

Total raised: $337 million
Total distributed: $63 million
Designated for families: 69%
Designated for companies: 11%
Victim support: 8%
Disaster reimbursement: 5%
Mental health/counseling: 4%
Rescue/recovery: 3%

Twin Towers Fund
Twin Towers Fund

Mayor Giuliani’s fund, which he hopes to keep running after leaving office, was established for families of the 389 uniformed service members who died. At stores nationwide, the $22.50 CFDA/Vogue Fashion for America T shirt has raised more than $1 million.

Total raised: $113 million
Total distributed: $47million
Initial checks averaging $120,000 were intended to meet families’ immediate emergencies. The fund will assess each individual case to determine further support.

Robin Hood Relief Fund
Robin Hood Relief Fund

Paul McCartney, Mick Jagger and other rockers shook up Madison Square Garden at the Oct. 20 show, which raised $30 million. The fund selectively awards grants to agencies that search out 9-11’s neediest and overlooked victims.

Total raised: $48 million
Total distributed: $13 million
Designated for families: 75%
Mental health/counseling: 17%
Job training/placement: 6%
Rescue/recovery: 2%

Victim Compensation Fund
Victim Compensation Fund

Federal dollars will go to the injured and families of the deceased by early next year. Estimated amounts range from $600,000 to $25 million per family.

Safe Horizon
Safe Horizon

More than 27,000 checks totaling $30 million-plus have been written to families. It also set up a toll-free hot line (866-689-HELP) for questions. (safehorizon.org)

ASPCA Disaster Relief
ASPCA Disaster Relief

The ASPCA raised $1.3 million to rescue, treat and find homes for animals whose owners died in the attacks. More than 200 animals were saved and 300 treated. (aspca.org)

Middletown Favor
Middletown Favor

Neighbors hit the streets to support the 34 families of this N.J. community; $100,000 was raised by knocking on doors, cold calls and sports raffles. (800-861-8736)