Welcome

Thank you for visiting the Trustees of the Riot Relief Fund website. In presenting this web site, we hope to share the history of events out of which the Fund was born nearly 150 years ago and to encourage participation in the Funds' initiatives.

The Riot Relief Fund is an all volunteer, not for profit organization founded in 1863 and incorporated in 1887 following the New York City Civil War draft riots in July of 1863. The Fund was initially established by three dedicated and noteworthy citizens who met for lunch just days after the riots had subsided. In their meeting, Henry J. Raymond, Paul S. Forbes and Leonard Jerome agreed to form a committee to raise funds for the men who had dutifully fought to subdue the mobs and restore order to a city wrought with turmoil.

Today, the mission of the Riot Relief Fund is to preserve this sentiment by providing immediate financial relief to the families of fallen New York City police and fire fighters. As special needs arise within the NYPD and NYFD that fall into the scope of the Riot Relief Fund's mission, the Fund contributes to these causes to foster the success and security of their officers. The Fund also provides grants to law students who exhibit exceptional ability and enthusiasm toward their field.

At an annual luncheon commemorating the initial meeting of Riot Relief Fund's three founding trustees, a Medal for Outstanding Service is presented to an individual who has exhibited exceptional commitment to law enforcement. Among the recipients have been Mayor Rudolf W. Giuliani, various judges, commissioners of the police and fire departments, distinguished attorneys and other private citizens.

The Riot Relief Fund has been sustained without solicitation since 1863. However, as an organization born out of the generosity of New York City citizens, we welcome and greatly appreciate any donations. For your convenience, we have provided a way to securely via PayPal (no account is required).

Again, we would like to thank you for your interest in the Riot Relief Fund. We hope our rich history and dedication to the men and women who protect our city will inspire your sustained interest in our mission.