For over three decades, River Fund NY has been a lifeline for underserved communities in New York, transforming lives with its unwavering commitment to dignity, hope, and empowerment. Founded by Swami Durga Das during the height of the AIDS epidemic, the organization has grown into a full-fledged poverty resource center, tackling food insecurity, education, and access to essential services for thousands of New Yorkers.
“We’re not here just to give someone a sandwich..we want to sustain them, help them out of poverty, and change the trajectory of their lives,” said Swami Durga Das.
Meeting Basic Needs with a Holistic Approach
At the heart of River Fund’s mission is its food assistance program, which supports up to 3,500 households weekly. The organization distributes more than 1 million pounds of groceries, clothing, and other essentials monthly. Whether through twice-weekly onsite grocery services, homebound deliveries, or their mobile pantry program, River Fund ensures that no one is left behind.
But River Fund’s work doesn’t stop with food. Their Benefits Center serves over 15,000 clients annually, assisting with SNAP enrollment, healthcare access, immigration support, and domestic violence resources. Partnering with agencies like GMHC allows the organization to deliver tailored solutions to meet clients’ diverse needs.
“We’re here to bridge gaps…whether we provide the service ourselves or connect clients with the right resources, it’s about offering real solutions,“ he explained.
Breaking the Cycle of Poverty Through Education
For River Fund, education is the key to breaking generational poverty. Their Cradle to College initiative helps children and young adults rise above their circumstances with programs such as:
- The Mary C. Tiedemann Scholarship Fund supports students pursuing higher education.
- Mentoring and tutoring programs that guide the classroom.
- Child Poverty Awareness Day, with more than 5,500 backpacks filled with supplies, clothing, and shoes are distributed annually.
- Baby Shower and Diaper Programs, giving new mothers essential support.
- Kids Worldwide, which fosters global awareness and creates opportunities for young people.
“Education is the only tool that truly moves the needle,“ Swami Durga Das emphasized. “It empowers individuals to rise above their circumstances and build a better future.”
A Mission Rooted in Compassion
River Fund’s legacy remains anchored in the principles that guided its work during the AIDS crisis: restoring dignity and offering hope to those society has overlooked.
This spirit is alive in their annual Christmas distribution, transforming their facility into a holiday wonderland, complete with gifts for children and winter essentials for needy families.
“We’re not just providing services; we’re creating pathways to sustainable progress,“ Swami Durga Das said.
Through food, education, and comprehensive support, River Fund NY continues to embody the power of community and compassion, proving that change begins when people come together to lift each other.
