At the outset of the pandemic, when Governor Cuomo signed the “New York State on PAUSE” order, directing the closure of all non-essential businesses statewide on March 22, students and alumni began calling Riverside for support. Many suddenly found themselves unemployed and struggling to navigate the complexities of the health care system. Approximately 60% of Riverside students lost their jobs because of COVID-19; a majority worked in the service sector.
In response, Riverside created a Community Relief Fund and, with help from its community and two generous donors who provided match grants, raised $30,000 to distribute emergency grants for food and other necessities to students and alums hardest hit by the pandemic. A $25,000 grant from the Robin Hood Foundation helped Riverside expand the Fund to include its broader alumni population.
To date, Riverside has distributed over $40,000 in emergency grants. Rent, food, medicine, and utility bills constitute the areas of greatest need. These grants have been a critical lifeline as our students and alumni navigate the current economic landscape for themselves and their families.