Theres an awful lot of money floating around in the wake of the September 11th attacks, much of it pledged by heartbroken Americans hoping to do something to help those who lost family in the tragedies. Most estimates put the total funds raised at more than $1 billion, a figure so large it seems to guarantee security for everyone whos suffered a loss in the attacks. So why is it virtually impossible for anyone to get the aid they so desperately need?
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The role of the Red Cross
The Red Cross, one of Americas most venerable charities sits in the crosshairs of this debate. Bernadine Healy, who was director of the organization until her tearful, abrupt and coerced resignation last week, was called before an angry House committee this week to explain the organizations operations. The Red Crosss Liberty Fund, established in the wake of the terror attacks, is under fire from indignant lawmakers and angry donors. It turns out that only part of the fund which stands at nearly $550 million, ostensibly earmarked for the families of those who died September 11th will actually reach those family members. Instead, Red Cross officials revealed this week, nearly half ($264 million) of that money will be redirected into other projects, including a slush fund to be used in the case of future terrorist attacks. Healy insists there was no intention to mislead donors, and that the goal was always to keep some of the contributions on hand for "future critical priorities." To date, the Red Cross has paid out $121 million directly to victims families, most of it in the form of cash for the payment of basic living expenses.
There does appear to be some good news; recent scrutiny and rising public frustration has prompted action in one case, at least. A chunk of the Twin Towers Fund, which currently stands at $82 million, will be doled out before Thanksgiving, according to outgoing New York mayor Rudy Giuliani. Hizzoner wants to give half of it to 850 families of government employees (firefighters, police, transit workers) who lost their lives September 11th. According to mayoral estimates, each family stands to receive $100,000. Giuliani, who will oversee the fund after he leaves office in January, told reporters Wednesday he needs more time to design an "equitable way to distribute" the remaining half of the fund.