COVID-19 relief fund raises $37.4 million

The New Jersey Pandemic Relief Fund headed by First Lady Tammy Murphy has raised over $37.4 million since the end of March and has distributed $18 million to 460 non-profit organizations so far, the group announced today.

None of the money has gone for administrative overhead, in contrast to a charitable group headed by Murphy’s predecessor to help victims of superstorm Sandy.

“With our initial grants awarded to 460 deserving organizations and nonprofits now completed, the NJPRF will focus on strategic initiatives in areas where our funding can have a transformative impact,” Murphy said. “By strategically partnering with leading foundations and charitable organizations, we can leverage our shared values to support those New Jersey residents most impacted by COVID-19.”

Financial relief has gone to all 21 counties, primarily for food security, healthcare hubs, telemedicine, education assistance, small business assistance, and direct cash payments to immigrants, the fund said.

Cam Henderson, a former Christie administration official, was paid $160,000-a-year to lead he Hurricane Sandy New Jersey Relief Fund.

Earlier this week, Henderson settled a lawsuit filed by Attorney General Gurbir Grewal that accused her of raising millions for a non-profit group to assist President Donald Trump without registering with the state.

Henderson, who now holds a top Trump administration post, agreed to disband the group, Trump for America.  She was fined $30,000 as part of the settlement, but all but $2,500 was suspended.