The George Lazarus Fund for Vulnerable Families honors the life and legacy of Dr. George M. Lazarus, a former Sanctuary Board member and compassionate advocate who dedicated his life to caring for others.
Deeply committed to the health and safety of vulnerable children and families, George brought warmth, generosity, and tireless dedication to Sanctuary’s mission. As a pediatrician, he devoted his life to children’s well-being, which fueled his deep involvement in Sanctuary for Families’ work with families affected by gender-based violence. George passed away on January 20, 2025, leaving behind a legacy of compassion and unwavering support for survivors of gender-based violence.
The Fund provides critical financial and material assistance to survivors of gender violence, helping them navigate crises and regain stability. By addressing urgent economic needs, the Fund helps survivors avoid devastating setbacks and take meaningful steps toward long-term independence and freedom from abuse.
Most of our clients live in poverty and leave everything behind when they escape abuse. Donor support is life-changing — providing safe housing, food, furniture, and other necessities that help families regain stability and rebuild their lives with dignity and security.
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HOW WE HELP
Helping families in crisis avert disaster
- Rent payment to avoid eviction
- Utility payments to prevent shut off
- Emergency food and grocery cards
- Emergency transportation
- Lock changes for safety
- Emergency medication
- Emergency diapers
Helping clients along the path towards stability
- Security deposit / first month’s rent
- Moving and storage costs
- Household furnishings
- Tuition assistance
- School books and supplies
- Legal fees
- MetroCards
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“For the past few years, it has been incredibly hard for my child and myself. Everything we had at one point was taken from us.