Key facts
- Timothy Mellon donated two properties in Lyme, Connecticut, to Children's Health Defense.
- The properties are valued at $5.5 million and span about 300 acres.
Timothy Mellon, a significant donor to Donald Trump's campaigns, transferred two Connecticut properties valued at $5.5 million to Children's Health Defense, an anti-vaccine organization founded by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The donation occurred last year, with Mellon covering maintenance costs and retaining access to parts of the land.
The substantial donation by a major political donor to a controversial organization highlights the intersection of political influence, wealth, and advocacy groups with significant public policy implications.
Timothy Mellon, a prominent donor to Donald Trump's political campaigns and heir to the Mellon banking fortune, has transferred two large properties in Lyme, Connecticut, to Children's Health Defense, an organization founded by Robert F. Kennedy Jr. The properties, valued at $5.5 million and covering approximately 300 acres, were donated last August. Deeds indicate the properties are located at 100-7 Joshuatown Road and 62 Joshua Lane, featuring amenities like a pool and tennis court.
Mellon, described as reclusive, has largely avoided public attention but has made significant political contributions. He previously pledged $130 million to ensure military service members were paid during a government shutdown and has donated millions to PACs supporting Trump's campaigns. He also made donations to Kennedy's presidential campaign.
Under the terms of the donation, Mellon agreed to cover improvement and maintenance costs for the parcels while retaining access to certain areas, including a family cemetery. The properties were sold for $0 at the time of the transfer.