A benefit was held Tuesday for the families of fallen first responders.
It was part of the New York Police and Fire Widows and Children’s Benefit Fund’s Kick-Off to Summer.
The group has been raising money since 1985, helping families of fallen police officers and firefighters with immediate expenses and an annual stipend.
Organizers said it’s about letting the families know their loved ones haven’t been forgotten.
“When you think about the sacrifice that’s been made, the least we can do is to try to make an economic difference or a human difference in their lives,” said Steve Dannhauser, chairman of the Police and Fire Widows and Children’s Benefit Fund.
“You know, they’ve recognize[d] widows from 50 years ago,” said outgoing Fire Commissioner Salvatore Cassano. “And when you suffer a line of duty loss and people recognize that from the outside, it gives the families a little comfort and a little solace in knowing that their loved ones’ sacrifice isn’t forgotten.”
The group has raised nearly $130 million since its inception.
