The Patriotic Fund was set up ‘By Her Majesty’s Command’ in October 1854 with Prince Albert as its President. Its purpose was to co-ordinate the collection and distribution of money donated by the public for the widows and orphans of men killed during the war. Commissioners were appointed across the country and aid was distributed according to the needs of each family. This printed letter of 12 March 1855 from the Secretaries of the fund to the Commissioners in aid illustrates the continuing efforts to co-ordinate the relief: at least £290,000 had already been collected.