Contact: Sunny Mindel/ Edward Skyler (212) 788-2958
Mayor Rudolph W. Giuliani and the family of Nicole Barrett today announced the creation of a fund to help defray the costs associated with Nicole's continuing care and rehabilitation. Since Nicole was viciously assaulted on November 16, New Yorkers and well-wishers from around the country have been praying for her speedy recovery and searching for a way to express their support. The City has setup the Friends of Nikki Fund to receive donations to help the family provide for the extensive treatment and rehabilitation Nicole will undergo.
The Mayor made the announcement at Bellevue Hospital, where Nicole is being treated, and was joined by members of the Barrett family, Community Assistance Unit Commissioner Rosemarie C. O'Keefe and Hospital staff.
"The brutal attack on Nicole Barrett has touched the lives of so many people who were both shocked by the random nature of the crime and inspired by Nicole's brave fight to overcome her injuries," the Mayor said. "New Yorkers, in particular, have once again demonstrated the depths of their compassion by offering their prayers and expressing their concern for the entire Barrett family. Many people have been so moved by what happened to Nicole that they have searched for ways to assist the family. Thanks to their generosity, the Friends of Nikki Fund will help cover some of the costs of providing Nicole with the best care and rehabilitation available as she begins the long and difficult road to recovery."
The Barrett family released the following statement:
"We would like to express our deep gratitude to the countless New Yorkers and people from around the country who have kept Nicole in their prayers and opened their hearts to our family. We would also like to thank Mayor Giuliani, CAU Commissioner O'Keefe and her staff, the Police Department and Bellevue Hospital for everything they have done for Nikki and us. Without their tremendous outpouring of love and support, it would be even more difficult to maintain our strength during this difficult time. Even in the darkest hours, we have never lost faith that Nikki will recover. And with each passing day, she gives us yet another sign that she will overcome this tragedy."
Community Assistance Unit Commissioner Rosemarie O'Keefe said, "No matter what crisis or tragedy confronts our City, New Yorkers always rally behind those who need our help. The funds that the City has established in the past have immeasurably eased the suffering of thousands of people, from the victims of natural disasters to the victims of violent crime."
To make a monetary contribution to help Nicole, checks can be made out to:
Individuals with further questions on how they can help are encouraged to call 212-788-7410 or 212-788-7418.
Nicole Barrett was standing on the northeast corner of 42nd Street and Madison Avenue on Tuesday, November 16 when she was approached by an assailant who struck her in the head with a brick and fled the scene. Anyone with information regarding this crime is urged to call 1-800-577-TIPS. A $11,000 reward is being offered for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person or persons responsible for this crime.