ourmission
Our mission is to boost the economic and social wellbeing of homeless families in NYC. We also wish to tackle the pervading causes of homelessness in NYC via family support and social awareness. Also, we are working towards launching a scholarship program for children who wish to go to college, and in due time, this plan will come to fruition.
our story
The NEL Foundation was founded by Samantha Lawrence, a social worker, dedicated and resourceful Humanitarian with a strong work ethic and excellent breadth of experience in social services programs. She named this organization to honor her father, Nathaniel E. Lawrence (1940-2006 ), born in Grenada, the “Spice Isle” Nathaniel was a Sandhog who believed in hard work and perseverance, and he instilled this belief his daughter which is behind the founding precepts of the NEL Foundation. Nathaniel wasn’t lucky to come from a privileged home, and he vowed to provide his children with everything his parents couldn’t provide him with.
His work with the homeless began in Grenada, WI, immediately after the Hurricane Ivan devastated the small island. Over 90% of homes on the island of 100,000 lost their homes. Nathaniel, jump into action, galvanizing, clothing, and food drives. His goal until he died was to help every homeless person find safe shelter.
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The NEL Foundation was officially incorporated in 2018, and they had their first clothing and household drive at the Palooza Restaurant at 1224 Nostrand Ave. This drive was honored by Senator Jesse Hamilton, News 12; it was advertised on Board 17 meetings and Borough President Adams’ office.
In June 2018, The NEL Foundation received an honorary citation from the Borough President- Eric Adams for the work NEL Foundation has performed in the society. These works included making provisions for the community. Ever since then, NEL has held various drives for Father’s Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas, and other notable festive drives.