Our Story
We learned firsthand that tragedy doesn’t discriminate when our daughter, River, died at just two days old in September of 2018. Our world came crashing down around us as we found ourselves in the middle of every parent’s worst nightmare: instead of taking River home from the hospital to begin our lives together, we would be faced with the unthinkable task of planning her funeral.
Our Mission
Sh*t happens to good people and hardship doesn’t discriminate. Individuals in our own community are faced with tragedies and unimaginable adversity every single day. We want to be there for those people: the ones who’ve found themselves in the middle of something they couldn’t have prepared for. Those who don’t quite fit into a box, but need some support to get through the adversity they’re facing.
How You Can Help
There are several ways you can help The River Ellis Foundation and give a sunrise to someone in the Hampton Roads Community. We’d love for you to get involved!
Make a Donation
Help make a difference in the lives of those in our community who need it the most. Every dollar counts!
Nominate Someone
Do you know someone in the community who have recently faced an unexpected hardship and could use some extra support? Nominate them today!
Read latest news from our blog:
REF Helps Family After Father Passed Away Suddenly From Heart Attack
After an 18 year old boy had a sudden stroke, he was diagnosed with leukemia and passed away just days later. The River Ellis Foundation worked with @theboulevardbutler to provide two weeks of meals for his family as they processed his unexpected passing and began to...
REF Assists Family After Son Receives Sudden Leukemia Diagnosis
After an 18 year old boy had a sudden stroke, he was diagnosed with leukemia and passed away just days later. The River Ellis Foundation worked with @theboulevardbutler to provide two weeks of meals for his family as they processed his unexpected passing and began to...
REF Covers Funeral Costs For Baby After Mother Contracts COVID-19
After a pregnant woman contracted COVID-19, she had to deliver her baby early. While the mother was able to recover, the baby tragically passed away. The River Ellis Foundation covered funeral expenses and a burial plot for the baby that the family was unable to...
Make A Donation
Help make a difference in the lives of those in our community who need it the most. Every dollar counts!
Get Involved
Are you looking to get involved in giving back to your community? We have many volunteer opportunities and events throughout the year. If you’re interested in becoming a volunteer, please complete the form on the volunteer page.