¡Hola! Hello! I'm Ruth Edwards—thank you for being here.

I’m a proud first-generation Afro-Latina from Brooklyn and a recent Master’s graduate in Latin American Studies from the University of Connecticut. My education opened my eyes to the power of access—something I’ve been blessed to receive and feel deeply called to share.

During my time traveling between Brooklyn and my family’s hometown of Barriada San José in Aguadulce, Panama, I saw a heartbreaking reality: many children there don’t have access to essentials, like daily meals, school supplies, internet for homework, or even a safe place to dream.

That’s why I’m raising funds for Jesús Da Vida Foundation (JDV).

Founded in 2001, JDV is a Christian-based nonprofit that serves over 40 children (ages 6–18) with hot meals, tutoring, music and dance classes, and faith-based community activities. My aunt, Jury Simmons, has led this mission with love and dedication for the past 2 years. Alongside four incredible volunteers, she creates a space where kids are seen, supported, and inspired—twice a week, every week.

Now, we need your help to keep JDV alive and growing.

What Your Gift Provides:

We’ve broken down our monthly costs so you can see exactly how your donation makes a difference. Every dollar goes toward creating a safe, joyful, and enriching space for the kids at JDV.

$1 – Prize for a group game or activity (stickers, treats, or small toys)

$5 – School supplies for one child (notebooks, pencils, folders)

$10 – Basic Hygiene Package (toothbrush, toothpaste, shampoo and conditioner, deodorant, a hairbrush, nail clippers, and feminine hygiene product)

$15 – One math tutoring or dance lesson

$25 – One music lesson (guitar, piano, and drums)

$50 – A full day of nutritious meals for all children

$65 – One month of WiFi to support online learning

$100 – Weekly tutoring and enrichment for multiple children

$250 – A week’s worth of meals, classes, and supplies

$500+ – A full month of programming support for several children

No matter the amount, your gift directly supports the kids. Each donor will receive a quarterly newsletter with photos, stories, and a full expense breakdown so you can see the impact you’ve made. These children are smart, talented, and full of dreams. But poverty shouldn’t be the reason they’re left behind.

Thank you for being part of this mission

Please follow and share on Instagram @jdv_nuevageneracion