The nation's home builders have raised nearly $9 million for the Home Builders Care Victims' Relief Fund, which was established to assist victims of terrorism, including the rescue workers and other victims of the Sept. 11 attacks on America.

"Our industry's response to this national tragedy, particularly from our largest builders, has been nothing short of remarkable," said Bruce Smith, president of the NAHB and a builder from Walnut Creek, Calif. "The tally is approaching $9 million, and the campaign has been underway for less than a week."

Among the contributors are seven home building firms: Beazer Homes, Centex Corp., Hovnanian Enterprises Inc., Lennar Corp., M.D.C. Holdings Inc./Richmond American Homes, Pulte Homes Inc. and Toll Brothers Inc.