Thiele: 9/11 First Responders and Survivors Can Apply For Additional Assistance until October 3
Twelve years ago, on Sept. 11, 2001, tragedy shook our entire nation and took the lives of thousands of innocent New Yorkers. Still, over a decade later, the images of that day are just as vivid and the emotional wounds just as raw. We will never forget the ones we lost or the bravery and selflessness on display during those tragic morning hours. Sept. 11 will never be just another day, but a day to remember the fallen and honor our heroes.
New York’s first responders are truly some of the most courageous people among us. They raced into action on 9/11, as they do every day, and risked everything to get others to safety. And for the weeks and months that followed, they worked around the clock on the devastation left behind.
But for many, their heroism came at a cost. Since 9/11, many first responders and survivors are still forced to cope with injuries and illnesses they sustained as a result of that day and the clean-up that followed. It’s important they know that help is still available.
Under the James Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act of 2010, first responders and survivors who became ill or sustained injuries, as well as surviving family members of those victims who passed away due to the attacks, may still apply for compensation from the Victim Compensation Fund.1 Survivors and first responders eligible for the program must register for financial compensation by Oct. 3. For eligible victims enrolled in the World Trade Center Health Program or who have filed with the NYS Workers’ Compensation Board, a separate registration for the Victim Compensation Fund is required in order to receive assistance. For more information about the Victim Compensation Fund or to apply, visit www.vcf.gov or call the helpline at 855-885-1555.
September 11 will always remain a day to remember the ones we lost too soon and pay tribute to the heroes who gave everything. Nothing will ever erase this tragedy and it’s important that first responders and survivors struggling to cope with any injuries and lasting effects know there is still help available.
I urge any 9/11 first responders or survivors in need of assistance to apply for compensation with the Victim Compensation Fund and get the help they need before the Oct. 3 deadline.