In recent months' since the terrible tragedies of September 11, 2001, friends and neighbors here in the Upper Valley generously gave more than $70,000 through our United Way to help the relief efforts of the national September 11th Fund.  Nearly two-thirds of those gifts came from direct cash contributions, while still more came from United Way campaign pledges which were designated specifically to the Fund.

Now, the New York Community Trust and United Way of New York City, managers of the September 11th Fund, have asked that donors and local United Ways stop sending contributions.  They say the current level of donations, which totals over $425 million, is sufficient to accomplish the Fund's goals, and that donors should refocus their attention on United Way efforts in their own communities.

The September 11th Fund, and its companion celebrity telethon fund, were established to provide ways for people to help the victims of these horrific attacks, their families and communities with confidence that their gifts would be used wisely, effectively and fairly.  

We sincerely thank all those who joined us in that effort to help those who suffered suffered so much, so suddenly. 

Thank you.