On Monday, September 30th, Pitta & Baione LLP was proud to support our colleagues at 911 Health Watch Inc., one of the leading organizations dedicated to seeking justice for victims and heroes of the tragic events of September 11th. The fundraiser brought together advocates, legal professionals, first responders, and caring citizens who united to support the ongoing health and well-being of those impacted by the attacks. Nearly a quarter-century has passed since that fateful day, and the event served not only as a reminder of the heroism and sacrifice shown by many but also as a means to provide essential resources for those still grappling with health challenges in the aftermath.
Pitta & Baione LLP Partner Vito Pitta commented, “For many people, “Never Forget” has become just a bumper sticker; not so for United States Senator Kirsten Gillibrand and Local 94 IUOE President Thomas Hart. They understand that “Never Forget” is a solemn promise that our City, our State, and our Country made to the victims, survivors, and responders of the September 11th terrorist attacks, and they have been tireless advocates to ensure that all those injured by those heinous attacks are indeed never forgotten. For that, they are certainly worthy recipients of recognition by 911 Health Watch. In the years-long efforts to expand healthcare and compensation benefits for victims, they both have been leading voices. As the 9/11 community once again is faced with a potential funding shortfall for the World Trade Center Health Program, to no one’s surprise, they continue to lead the charge.”
About 911 Health Watch Inc.
911 Health Watch Inc. is a non-profit organization that has long been at the forefront of advocating for the health and rights of 9/11 survivors, first responders, and their families. The organization was established to ensure that individuals exposed to toxic conditions at Ground Zero receive the medical attention and financial support they need.
One of their primary roles has been to monitor the implementation and funding of health programs for those affected, particularly through the World Trade Center Health Program. The WTCHP provides specialized medical treatment, monitoring, and health screenings to those who were exposed to the hazardous materials released during the attacks and their aftermath. 911 Health Watch Inc. has played a vital role in ensuring that these programs continue to be well-funded and efficient, providing critical health services to those enrolled.
The organization also works closely with lawmakers to maintain the integrity of the Victim Compensation Fund, which provides financial compensation to individuals who have suffered health complications due to their involvement in or proximity to the rescue, recovery, and cleanup operations following the attacks. Many of these individuals continue to battle cancer, respiratory illnesses, and other conditions tied to exposure at Ground Zero, and 911 Health Watch Inc. provides a crucial voice in advocating for their rights and ensuring that their needs are met.
What the Funding Will Go Towards
Over two decades have passed since the horrific events of September 11th took place and though many individuals may assume that the victims and heroes of 9/11 have been fairly compensated for the trauma and suffering they have endured, Pitta & Baione LLP and 911 Health Watch both know that the fight is far from over. Many of those who were present at Ground Zero and south of Houston Street are still struggling to get access to the medical care and mental health support they deserve. Though programs such as the Victim Compensation Fund and the World Trade Center Health Program exist to serve these populations, these programs are often underfunded, and access to them can be wrongfully denied to those who desperately need and rightfully deserve them. Due to rising healthcare costs, the WTCHP is facing a funding crisis that could result in a shortfall by 2028. Recent efforts in Congress have aimed to address this gap, with legislation introduced to secure permanent funding to prevent cuts in care. 911 Health Watch continues to lead the forefront of this battle to ensure continuity of care for those impacted by 9/11 health conditions.
911 Health Watch recently celebrated a significant victory when uterine cancer was officially added to the list of covered conditions under the WTCHP. This marks a crucial step in expanding care for those affected by 9/11-related health issues. In addition, the organization continues to advocate for the inclusion of autoimmune and cardiovascular conditions, pushing petitions to ensure these diseases are recognized and treated under the WTCHP, as they are increasingly seen in 9/11 survivors
Pitta & Baione LLP is in support of 911 Health Watch’s recently filed Article 78 lawsuit in New York State Supreme Court, challenging the City of New York’s refusal to release documents regarding the health risks from toxins at Ground Zero during and after 9/11. This lawsuit aims to uncover what the Giuliani administration knew about these risks and when they knew it.
As a law firm that focuses on representing 9/11 victims in their search for medical care and mental health support for their suffering, we proudly support 911 Health Watch and the services they provide to victims and first responders. Through their 2024 Benefit Fundraiser, 911 Health Watch was able to secure crucial funding needed to continue their monitoring of 9/11 healthcare and victim compensation funds to ensure that victims, as well as first responders and their families, receive the benefits and support that they deserve.
Giving a Voice to Victims and First Responders of September 11th
Contributing to and working with 9/11 watch organizations is just one of many ways that our firm continues to seek justice and provide support for 9/11 victims and first responders. While 911 Health Watch is an incredible organization dedicated to making sure that victim funds are allocated responsibly and fairly, we at Pitta & Baione LLP take pride in being able to provide legal support to 9/11 victims who have been denied their right to these organizations and the benefits that they provide.
If you were a victim, or a family member of an individual who was impacted, who has not received fair compensation for your or your loved one’s suffering, we can help your voice be heard. Pitta & Baione LLP has uncovered millions of dollars in compensation for 9/11 victims to help them access healthcare for cancer, COPD, and other ailments commonly associated with the toxic chemicals found at Ground Zero. We have also helped the families of fallen 9/11 first responders access pension funds to help offset the loss of their loved ones. Contact our law firm today and schedule a free consultation to go over your case and we will tell you more about the services that we can provide for you.
