Eleven Year Anniversary of 9/11 Terrorist Attacks
On September 11, 2001, terrorists attacked the United States of America killing and injuring thousands. Horrified and compassionate Americans across the country subsequently donated $2.2 billion to various charities that had quickly set up 9/11-related funds. Under pressure from the media, politicians and donors, the majority of this money was spent within a year of the attacks. However, some charities wisely withheld a portion of the money they raised so that they could continue to fund memorial projects, mental and health-care services, and scholarships into the future.
This year, as we commemorate the 11th anniversary of this tragedy, it is warranted that we take a look at the charities that established 9/11 funds and how they are performing today.
Facts related to 9/11
- 20% of Americans knew someone hurt or killed on 9/11.
- Around 36,000 units of blood were donated to the New York Blood Center, but only 258 were used.
- The IRS fast-tracked the approval of 300 new 9/11 related charities. By 2006, 1/3 couldn't be located and 38 had closed.
- The fires burned for almost 100 days after the attack.
- Around 1,300 corporations and foundations made 9/11 related donations accounting for nearly 40% of all donations.
- 2,992 people died in the attacks.
