Cardi B Pays Bronx Fire Victims' Funeral Costs

NEW YORK CITY — Cardi B is making money move for victims of a devastating apartment fire in the Bronx.

The hip hop superstar and Bronx native is helping pay for funeral costs of 17 people who lost their lives in the Jan. 9 blaze, a mayor's office release states.

“I’m extremely proud to be from the Bronx and I have lots of family and friends who live and work there still. So, when I heard about the fire and all of the victims, I knew I needed to do something to help,” she said in a statement. “I cannot begin to imagine the pain and anguish that the families of the victims are experiencing, but I hope that not having to worry about the costs associated with burying their loved ones will help as they move forward and heal. I send my prayers and condolences to everyone affected by this horrific tragedy."

Cardi B's financial help will go through the mayor's Bronx Fire Relief Fund, which has so far raised more than $2.5 million.

A fire in the 181st Street apartment building created deadly smoke that spread through the structure because of an open door, authorities said. Most victims hailed from Africa, particularly the Gambia.

Many family members want to bury their loved ones back in Africa — a potentially costly proposition.

The relief fund, with Cardi B's donation, will pay for burial and repatriation expenses, officials said.

"The resilience of this city reflects everyday New Yorkers who never turn their back on one another," Mayor Eric Adams said in a statement. "We are grateful for Cardi B, a real superstar on and off the mic, for granting some critical financial relief to families of the victims. The city will be forever thankful to her and also to the grassroots donors and corporate partners who have been able to offer immediate support for our neighbors in need, to reestablish themselves during this difficult time."

People who want to contribute to the fund can donate online at www.nyc.gov/fund. They can also mail a check made payable to "The Mayor's Fund to Advance New York City" — with an indication that donations are for the “Bronx Fire Relief Fund” in the memo field or a note enclosed with the check — to the Mayor’s Fund to Advance New York City, 253 Broadway, 6th Floor, New York, NY 10007.