The bombing in Manchester this week - attacking children and their parents - was another visceral reminder of the unimaginable consequences of terrorism. The frequency of terrorist acts on innocent people going about their daily routines, most recently this morning in Egypt, is unconscionable. Since the attack we are working with our international partners to offer our support.
We want to take this opportunity to build awareness about the World Trade Center Health Program and the medical and psychological conditions covered. To date, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has identified nearly 60 cancers that 9/11 survivors and responders have developed as a result of their exposures to the toxins in Lower Manhattan after the attacks.
On December 18, 2015, Congress approved the extension of the Zadroga 9/11 Health and Compensation Act, which provides compensation and medical and mental health treatment to first responders and survivors of the 9/11 terrorist attacks. One year later, there are still thousands of people who qualify for the benefits but have not yet signed up.
It is estimated that over 400,000 people were in Lower Manhattan on 9/11 and in the months afterward. Fifteen years later, many survivors are experiencing symptoms of the same life-threatening medical and psychological conditions as the responders who worked in the recovery effort.
The 15th Anniversary was a milestone, especially for those of us who were impacted on September 11, 2001. As we gathered in New York City, at the Pentagon in Shanksville, PA, or in our local communities, we remembered the 2,977 innocent citizens who lost their lives that day.
This afternoon, the House Intelligence Committee released the now-declassified 28 pages from the 2002 official report, Joint Inquiry into Intelligence Community Activities Before and After the Terrorist Attacks of September 11, 2001. Over the years, many 9/11 family members and lawmakers have worked tirelessly to advocate for this information to be made available to the American public.
This morning the deadliest shooting in U.S. history occurred at a night club in Orlando, Florida. Recognizing that our membership resides around the country and abroad, we want to provide information in case you may have a loved one that was impacted by this tragic event. Family members and friends who want to report a missing person or obtain information should call 407-246- 4357.
This Monday, May 30 marks the 148th observance of Memorial Day, where we honor and remember the brave men and women who have lost their lives while serving in our military. Since September 11, 2001, more than 2.5 million service members have been deployed to the Middle East, and thousands have given their lives in the line of duty.
On Wednesday, April 6, 2016, VOICES hosted our New Jersey Symposium, "Promoting Resiliency in Communities Impacted by Trauma." The event featured presentations by accomplished subject matter experts and clinicians working in the fields of trauma, grief and disaster mental health.
Join us for VOICES Center of Excellence for Community Resilience New Jersey Symposium, Promoting Resilience in Communities Impacted by Trauma on Wednesday, April 6, 2016.