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 Replaces Family’s Items After Fire
A local family’s home burned down, critically injuring 2 children and destroying all of the family’s belongings. REF provided food and clothing for the family so the mom could concentrate on caring for her children. #GiveASunrise
REF Covers Toll Fees For NICU Mom
A Suffolk mom traveled daily to CHKD for several months while her baby underwent surgery and became strong enough to be discharged from the NICU. REF prepaid the toll fees so that the mom could visit her baby each day. #GiveASunrise
REF Provides Hotel For Hospital Employee
A local hospital employee experienced a flood in his home, damaging most of his belongings including the keepsakes of his grandmother who recently passed away. REF provided a hotel for him while his home was cleaned up. #GiveASunrise
Make A Donation
Help make a difference in the lives of those in our community who need it the most. Every dollar counts!