Roxborough’s Henry James Saloon hosts fundraiser for FOP Survivor’s Fund

This weekend, the Henry James Saloon in Roxborough held a fundraiser to benefit the families of fallen police officers. 

Much of the community, including police officers, firefighters, paramedics, their friends and families filled the neighborhood establishment on Sunday night to help raise money for the Fraternal Order of Police’s Michael G. Lutz Police Survivor’s Fund. 

“It’s our fourth year holding this event,” said owner Dave Falcione. “The last three years we made $17,000, this year we expect to surpass $20,000.”

This year, they raised more than $5,000, bringing the four-year total to just over $22,000 for the Suvivor’s Fund. 

Nestled on Jamestown Street, off of Henry Ave, the Henry James Saloon sponsors many charitable causes such as neighborhood youth sports, high school and university scholarships.

On Sunday, a $40 donation at the door allowed patrons to an open bar and free food. Prizes were raffled off during the evening.

“I won three times,” said Nick Cessna. “I just gave away most of the items.”

The Fraternal Order of Police Survivor’s Fund pays for funeral expenses and helps families of fallen officers with finances throughout the entire year.

According to the FOP Lodge 5 website, 276 Philadelphia police officers have lost their lives in the line of duty. The Survivor’s Fund was established not only to remember the sacrifice of each officer, but to acknowledge the sacrifice made by each surviving family. 

“It’s a benefit that has a sad connotation. These are some trying times for the police department but it is a good time for the community to come together with great camaraderie,” one guest at the Henry James Saloon commented.

The money raised for the Survivor’s Fund has also enabled FOP Lodge 5 to provide a luncheon for families of fallen police officers during police week. There, they are presented with a token of appreciation and given the opportunity to visit with and receive moral support from one another. The families are also given the opportunity to attend the Police Week Memorials in Philadelphia, Harrisburg, Pa. and Washington, DC.

Benefits, such as the one held at the Henry James Saloon, occur all across the city. Donations to the Philadelphia Police Survivors fund can be sent to the “Fraternal Order of Police” at 1336 Spring Garden St., Philadelphia, Pa. 19123.