(DOE FUND) January 27, 2021

The Doe Fund is saddened to announce the passing of our Founder and President for 35 years, George T. McDonald. George passed away from complications of cancer on January 26th at Columbia Presbyterian. He was 76. 

Through The Doe Fund, George provided economic opportunity to over 28,000 homeless and formerly incarcerated individuals. He positioned the “Work Works” model as the most cost-effective and successful approach to helping the single adult homeless population, and he created a nationally replicable solution operating in seven cities. 

George was committed to providing a continuum of care to the most vulnerable New Yorkers: seniors, veterans, low-income families, individuals living with HIV/AIDS and other physical and mental disabilities. He presided over The Doe Fund’s portfolio of more than one million square feet of housing—over 1,000 permanent units and 874 transitional beds across 15 residences—currently open, under construction, and in development. 

George is survived by his wife and current Doe Fund President Harriet Karr-McDonald, his four children, and three grandchildren. In lieu of sending flowers, the family has asked to make donations to The Doe Fund in George’s memory.

George leaves us with a legacy that will be celebrated over the coming days and months. If you would like to share your memories, photos, thoughts and condolences in the interim, email rememberinggeorge@doe.org.
The Doe Fund will honor George by carrying on his relentless efforts to help thousands break the devastating cycles of poverty, addiction, homelessness, and recidivism for generations to come.