The George Subraj Family Foundation, backed by Zara Realty, is advancing its philanthropic mission with a $1 million donation to Northwell Health to strengthen cardiac care in Richmond Hill, Queens, and Guyana. Channeled through Northwell’s Center for Global Health, the gift will support vital education, training, and research initiatives aimed at reducing cardiac health disparities in underserved communities.
This contribution continues the foundation’s long-standing commitment to healthcare in Guyana, where in 2008 it played a pivotal role in the country’s first successful kidney transplant—marking a milestone in regional medical progress.
Expanding Access to Advanced Cardiac Care
The George Subraj Family Foundation’s $1 million pledge will help Northwell Health launch sustainable cardiac care programs in Richmond Hill, Queens—home to a large Guyanese population—and in Guyana, where advanced heart care is limited. With Northwell’s expertise, the initiative will focus on training providers, community education, and research to combat rising heart disease rates in both regions.
Dr. Rajiv Jauhar, vice chair of the Sandra Atlas Bass Heart Hospital, has spent over 20 years serving Queens and has seen the growing impact of cardiovascular disease.
“Heart disease affects Guyanese communities in Queens and Guyana at alarming rates due to cultural, dietary, and genetic factors,” said Dr. Jauhar. “Since 1968, rates have dropped 50% among Caucasian Americans but surged in the Guyanese population. The disparity is urgent and unacceptable.”
Dr. Jauhar’s dedication aligns closely with the George Subraj Family Foundation’s mission and Northwell’s commitment to health equity.
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A Comprehensive Plan to Improve Cardiac Outcomes
The $1 million investment will support a comprehensive initiative to improve cardiac care through education, training, outreach, and research tailored to the Guyanese community.
Community Outreach: Trained community health workers will deliver culturally tailored education, screenings, and prevention workshops across Queens. Data-driven strategies—using surveys, focus groups, and public events—will target at-risk groups and promote healthy lifestyles and preventive care.
Fellowship Programs: Two Guyanese physicians annually will receive six months of advanced cardiology training at Northwell Health, including interventional cardiology and electrophysiology. The program combines hands-on experience, virtual case reviews, and mentorship from New York-based Guyanese doctors.
Physician Training: Primary care doctors in Guyana will be trained in cardiac ultrasound and emergency care protocols. In Queens, training will strengthen referral pathways and equip physicians to guide patients on lifestyle changes to manage heart disease risk.
Advanced Cardiac Techniques: Cardiologists in Guyana will gain specialized skills in advanced procedures, expanding access to high-level cardiac care within the country.
Research & Data Analysis: Ongoing studies will assess heart health trends in Guyanese populations, driving customized interventions and better long-term outcomes.
Building on the Little Guyana Initiative
The partnership between Northwell Health and the George Subraj Family Foundation builds on the success of the Little Guyana Initiative, a Northwell-funded program led by LIJ Forest Hills Hospital under the leadership of President Lorraine Chambers-Lewis, PA-C. This initiative targets health disparities in Richmond Hill, where a 2023–24 assessment revealed high rates of heart disease, diabetes, and sudden death among Guyanese Americans.
Queens Borough President Donovan Richards Jr. praised the collaboration:
“This generous donation will elevate cardiac care in Richmond Hill—affectionately known as Little Guyana. Strengthening our healthcare system is a top priority, and this partnership ensures our community has the tools to live healthier lives.”
A spokesperson for City Council Member Lynn Schulman (D-29, Queens) echoed the support, calling the partnership “a groundbreaking effort” to improve heart care for Guyanese residents in both Queens and Guyana. Schulman, chair of the NYC Council’s Committee on Health, emphasized the urgency of expanding access to high-quality care and reducing disparities in underserved communities.
New Challenges as Guyana Experiences Rapid Growth
This initiative arrives at a crucial time as Guyana’s economy surges due to massive oil discoveries—bringing both opportunity and new health risks.
“Guyana’s economic growth has led to lifestyle changes that are accelerating heart disease,” said Dr. Eric Cioè-Peña, vice president of Global Health at Northwell Health. “Fast-food expansion and Westernized habits are driving up cardiovascular risk, creating a serious public health challenge. We’re essentially seeing heart disease being ‘imported’ into the region.”
A Legacy of Transforming Communities
“Our mission is to equip communities with the tools to turn alarming health stats into stories of strength and resilience,” said Tony Subraj, son of George Subraj and board member of the George Subraj Family Foundation.
“Together, we’re creating a lasting legacy of healthier communities and brighter futures,” added Amir Sobhraj, vice president of Zara Realty.
Expanding Northwell’s Global Reach
This initiative expands Northwell Health’s global health portfolio, which includes partnerships in Ecuador, India, the Dominican Republic, Kenya, and Uganda. Each program aims to improve health outcomes and foster lasting connections with communities around the world.
Honoring a Vision of Compassion and Progress
The George Subraj Family Foundation’s $1 million gift underscores its strong commitment to driving healthcare innovation and lasting impact. As Northwell Health launches these initiatives, the partnership promises to deliver hope and healing across borders.
Continuing George Subraj’s compassionate legacy, the foundation remains focused on empowering communities, advancing healthcare, and saving lives. This transformative collaboration with Northwell Health is shaping a healthier future for generations to come.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the George Subraj Family Foundation?
The George Subraj Family Foundation is a charitable organization founded to honor the legacy of George Subraj, a philanthropist and founder of Zara Realty. The foundation focuses on improving healthcare, education, and community development, particularly for underserved populations in Queens, New York, and Guyana.
What is the purpose of the $1 million donation to Northwell Health?
The $1 million donation aims to improve cardiac care in Richmond Hill, Queens, and Guyana by funding education, training, and research initiatives. The program targets health disparities in Guyanese communities with sustainable, long-term solutions.
Who benefits from this initiative?
The primary beneficiaries are the Guyanese communities in Richmond Hill, Queens, and in Guyana. The program is designed to enhance local healthcare systems, train physicians, and promote heart health through community education and improved access to care.
Why is cardiac care a focus of the initiative?
Cardiovascular disease is a leading cause of death among Guyanese populations in both Queens and Guyana. Cultural, genetic, and dietary factors contribute to elevated risk, making heart health a critical area of need.
What is the Little Guyana Initiative?
The Little Guyana Initiative is a Northwell Health program led by LIJ Forest Hills Hospital, focusing on reducing health disparities in Richmond Hill’s Guyanese community. The new donation builds upon its efforts.
How does this align with Northwell Health’s global efforts?
The initiative complements Northwell’s broader global health work in countries like Ecuador, India, the Dominican Republic, Kenya, and Uganda, where it leads programs to improve care access and outcomes.
How can community members get involved or access services?
Residents of Richmond Hill can participate in public health events, screenings, and workshops as part of the outreach program. For information, they can contact LIJ Forest Hills Hospital or visit Northwell Health’s website.
How does this honor George Subraj’s legacy?
The initiative reflects George Subraj’s lifelong commitment to improving healthcare access for the underserved. His foundation continues his vision by empowering communities through innovation and compassion.
Conclusion
The $1 million donation from the George Subraj Family Foundation, powered by Zara Realty, marks a transformative investment in global heart health. By focusing on underserved communities in Richmond Hill, Queens, and Guyana, this initiative is not only addressing urgent cardiovascular health disparities but also building a sustainable framework for long-term impact.
Through strategic collaboration with Northwell Health, the foundation is advancing education, empowering physicians, and promoting preventative care—turning a legacy of generosity into a future of healthier lives. This partnership stands as a powerful example of how community-driven philanthropy and world-class healthcare can come together to create lasting, meaningful change.