Mineola, NY - In the wake of the September 11, cowardly and horrific attack on the World Trade Center, Nassau County Legislator Patrick Williams (D-Uniondale) is encouraging all residents to make a donation to the New York State World Trade Center Relief Fund, a state-organized fund established for victims of the terrorist attack and their families.

To make a donation by credit card, individuals may visit www.state.ny.us, or call the state's donor hotline at 1-800-801-8092. In addition, checks may be sent to the New York State World Trade Center Relief Fund, P.O. Box 5028, Albany, NY 12205.

The newly established fund will be coordinated with the September 11th Fund, established by the United Way of New York City and the New York Community Trust, and the Twin Towers Fund, established by the City of New York.

"We are all so grateful for the rescue workers and the response from the volunteers during this tragedy. We have been told that the immediate need for volunteers and non-financial resources has been met. Now, the most beneficial way for people to help is to make a financial contribution," said Legislator Williams.

Legislator Williams also announced that several prominent banks, with branches in New York State, New Jersey and Connecticut, have joined together to make it easy for those with accounts at the banks to make a donation to the New York State World Trade Center Relief Fund and the Twin Towers Fund. Both funds were created this week to raise money to assist with disaster response and victim assistance.

Banks taking part so far include: JPMorganChase; M&T Bank; Citibank; Dime Savings Bank; HSBC Bank USA; GreenPoint Bank; and North Fork Bank. Individuals with accounts at these banks can go to any branch within New York State, New Jersey or Connecticut and make a donation to the fund directly from their checking or savings account, credit card or with cash. Each of the banks is also accepting contributions for the American Red Cross.