NEW YORK (WCBS 880) — A 9/11-inspired charity is pitching in to help those on the front lines of the battle against COVID-19.
The Stephen Siller Tunnel to Towers Foundation is best known for helping military and the families of first responders. Now it's putting up $3 million to help aid health care workers.
Some of the funds will be used to pay the mortgages of fallen doctors and nurses.
"These great health care workers are walking into a situation that is very, very dangerous," said Frank Siller, who started the non-profit in memory of his firefighter brother who was killed responding to the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001. "God forbid something happens to them, if they leave a young family behind, we're going to help make their mortgage payments."
The COVID-19 Heroes Fund established by Tunnel to Towers will also be used to buy personal protective equipment and feed EMTs.
"So many people came from around the country so we're making sure to help feed them every day they stage at Fort Totten and we're supplying the food," Siller said. "We are a foundation that has learned that we better support those who are ready to die for you and me. In this case, it's our health care workers."
Tunnel to Towers is seeking donations to expand its programs.
Those interested in donating should visit Tunnel2Towers.org or call 1-844-BRAVEST.