The September 11, 2001, attack on America has made the need for disaster relief a major issue. With this in mind, the citizens of Tioga County have decided to unite under one fund to aid the orphans of the fallen police, firefighters, and EMS workers from New York City and Washington, D.C.

 In a declaration, Tioga County has dedicated to our state and nation their support to the memory of the fire, police, and EMS personnel, our brothers and sisters, that have fallen in the line of duty.

 During talks with FEMA, it was discovered that the children affected by the attack on America would have long-term needs that may not be met.

 The Tioga County Disaster Relief for Orphans has mobilized more than 30 groups within the county which include everyone from the Tioga County Legislature to the mayors of each locality to the schools and many other groups desiring to help. The citizens of Tioga County have expressed a desire to be able to help and it is the express purpose of this group to provide an avenue for the funds collected to be administered to a specific target to be impacted by this effort.