Basic
NeedsSupporting basic needs means supporting the foundation of strong communities. Discover how ACF invests in programs, emergency response efforts, and regional partnerships that help Adirondack residents thrive.
Our Approach
Investing in the systems communities rely on every day
Some of the very things we all love about the Adirondacks — the mountains, the vastness — can make it challenging to access essential services like fresh food and health care. With an average population density of 14 people per square mile across an area encompassing a fifth of New York State, residents may travel an hour or more to reach a supermarket, a hospital, or their workplace.
More than 40% of the region’s population lives in poverty or makes too much to qualify for public assistance but not enough to make ends meet. ACF supports programs that play a pivotal role in breaking generational poverty and helping people realize their full potential.
upstream solutions
Social Safety Net Initiative
Our strength lies in our connection. By investing over $1.8 million in regional partnerships, this collective effort ensures that Adirondack communities remain resilient and that no resident falls through the cracks due to geographic isolation or poverty.
- Building on Research: The 2024 Adirondack Regional Social Safety Network Report highlighted housing, transportation, workforce readiness (including childcare), access to healthy food, specialty healthcare, and social cohesion as critical priorities.
- Supporting Partnerships and Innovation: We’re building on research and regional convenings to invest in innovative partnerships that help families not only survive but thrive. Four collaborative projects are underway, demonstrating creative ways to overcome the unique challenges of our rural landscape, including transportation barriers, social isolation, stable employment and housing. These grants support partnerships among key service organizations and are designed to enhance regional collaboration and expand access to essential services.
- Connecting Partners: This initiative is conducted in partnership with The John Rugge Center for Community Impact and funded in part by grants from the Mother Cabrini Health Foundation, F.M. Kirby Foundation, and generous donors and fund holders at Adirondack Community Foundation.
Adirondack Community Foundation awarded “Innovation Engine” grant to strengthen regional safety net
Adirondack Community Foundation Invests in Local Resilience with New Safety Net Grants
Adirondack Regional Social Safety Network Report
Related Stories & Articles
How Communities Across the Adirondacks are Responding to Basic Needs
Adirondack Community Foundation awards more than $1 million to local nonprofits
Going the Distance
Adirondack Community Foundation announces new fund to help food pantries scale up
Support the Work
Ways to Support Your Community
Your gift to the following funds helps support programs, partnerships, and resources that meet critical needs across our region. Learn more by clicking a fund below.
The Basic Needs Fund
Gifts to this fund will help the Foundation to support the formation of vital nonprofit partnerships and region-wide services that will expand the ecosystem of resources for our neighbors in need. Our Basic Needs work ensures that more people will not just make ends meet, but will position themselves for fulfilling lives.
