Jay-Z Concert For Police And Firefighter Widows

[New York News]

Shawn “JAY-Z” Carter is performing a benefit concert at New York City’s legendary Madison Square Garden on Friday, September 11, 2009. 

All proceeds from ticket sales and concert merchandise will go to New York Police and Fire Widows’ and Children’s Benefit Fund. 

Additional information can be found at www.answerthecall.org.

At a Madison Square Garden news conference, Jay-Z welcomed, Stephen Dannhauser, President & CEO, New York Police and Fire Widows’ and Children’s Benefit Fund,  New York City Fire Commissioner Nicholas Scoppetta,  Madison Square Garden President Jay Marciano,  MSG Media President Mike Bair,  Gov. David Paterson and Manhattan Borough President Scott Stringer.

"This charity and concert encompasses the true spirit of New York City.   We are asking everyone to 'answer the call' and support and honor the families of those that lost their lives in the line of duty.  There is a true camaraderie and resiliency this city showed the world in 2001 and we continue that today by taking care of our own,” Shawn “JAY-Z” Carter said."                     

"On behalf of  The New York Police and Fire Widows’ and Children’s Benefit Fund Board of Directors and the families of our fallen heroes, we are truly grateful for Jay-Z’s choice to support out charity and answer the call,” said Dannhauser.

“We were thrilled and humbled to be considered as beneficiaries of this generous act.  The Benefit Fund provides economic and human support to the widows, widowers and children of the first responders who protect this city.  We have distributed more than $100 million to 700 families over 25 years and will continue to make sure that the sacrifices of those families are not forgotten."