March 2, 2026 — A fund has been established to support the families of seven crew members who died when the fishing vessel Lily Jean sank Jan. 30 about 22 miles off Cape Ann.
The Gloucester Fishing Community Preservation Fund announced the creation of the Lily Jean Fund in the days following the sinking. According to organizers, 100% of donations will be distributed in equal amounts to the seven affected families.
Local financial institutions Cape Ann Savings Bank and BankGloucester are assisting with collection and processing of contributions.
An anonymous donor has pledged to match the first $40,000 raised, dollar for dollar. Donations of any size will qualify toward the match until the threshold is reached.