NYC Cardinal Opens Compensation Fund for Abuse Victims

New York Cardinal Timothy Dolan announced Thursday the creation of a new fund to help victims of sex abuse by members of the Catholic clergy in the archdiocese. The Independent Reconciliation and Compensation Program, to be led by 9/11 and Bernie Madoff compensation mediator Kenneth Feinberg, will help those who have reported abuse, and will review future claims. “I hear from you, my people, that, while still bruised and angry about this past crisis, you do appreciate very much the reform and progress that has been made,” Dolan said in a statement. “But, you also tell me that more outreach needs to be done to the victim-survivors. I hope this helps.” The program, which will be funded through loans, will also protect clergy members who face false claims of abuse against them.