LOWER MANHATTAN, N.Y. (PIX11) -- A record-breaking fundraiser for the Answer the Call: New York Police and Fire Widows' & Children's Benefit Fund.

The nonprofit raised $5.4 million at its 40th Gala at Cipriani's Wall Street Thursday night.

Mark Messier, a former New York Rangers player who serves on the organization's board, told PIX 11 News, "When you come to this dinner, it's a stark reminder that we have a responsibility to help these families who have lost their loved ones."

The Answer The Call organization was founded in 1985 by New York Mets Outfielder Rusty Staub. Stephen Dannhauser, who is the chairman of Answer The Call, said it all started when "Rusty lost a relative in the line of duty when he was in New Orleans. He's up in New York, he's with the Mets, he sees a first respon

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