Park Victim’s Firm Deluged by Cards

The public relations department of Salomon Bros. has hired temporary help to cope with thousands of cards--many with checks and cash--and scores of gifts arriving since one of the firm’s investment bankers was beaten and raped while jogging in Central Park on April 19.

One of the firm’s directors also has been appointed to oversee a trust fund, made up of mostly $5 and $10 donations from well-wishers, some as far away as Japan. “People have been very moved by what happened,” said the director, who asked not to be identified.

The money is being invested, he said, to help provide for the 28-year-old woman once she leaves the hospital. The firm would not say how much money has been received so far.

“Medically, we are taking care of everything for her,” he said, despite indications that she will continue to need care after she leaves the hospital.

Doctors at Metropolitan Hospital have said that chances for a complete recovery are remote. The woman reportedly suffered brain damage in the attack. Six teen-agers have been charged.

Salomon Bros. has hired “a few” temporary employees, and all letters are being answered, a spokeswoman said. The calls numbered in the hundreds at first, but have declined to about 30 a day, she said.