The Ridgewood Nepalese Society (RNS), a vital cultural anchor for the vibrant Nepali community nestled in the Ridgewood neighborhood of Queens, New York, has secured a $900,000 U.S. federal grant to renovate and expand its Nepali Community & Cultural Center.
This funding—the organization’s first-ever from the federal government—promises to bolster cultural preservation, youth programs, and integration services for the rapidly growing Nepalese-American community.
The grant stems from the Fiscal Year 2026 federal funding package, enacted through the Transportation, Housing and Urban Development (THUD) appropriations. U.S. Senator Chuck Schumer played a pivotal role, championing the project as part of his long-standing advocacy for immigrant communities in New York.
“I’m proud to deliver $900,000 in historic federal funds for the Ridgewood Nepalese Society—their first-ever federal grant—to renovate and expand the Nepali community and cultural center in Queens,” Schumer said in a statement. “Projects like this… will make a difference in the lives of New Yorkers. I won’t stop fighting to deliver the resources needed to better our communities, including the vibrant Nepalese-American community.”
RNS leaders hailed the award as a testament to years of grassroots advocacy and bipartisan support. “This federal grant represents more than infrastructure funding; it represents recognition, partnership, and opportunity,” said Amit Pratap Shah, Coordinator of the Government Affairs & Grant Committee. He credited “united community engagement and strategic advocacy” that aligned with leadership at all levels of government.
The center—a cornerstone for thousands of Nepali Americans in the New York area—offers language classes, cultural festivals, senior care, youth leadership training, and intergenerational events. New York City’s Nepali population has surged in recent years, driven by immigration waves following the 2015 earthquakes and expanding economic opportunities. This expansion will enhance accessibility, safety, and program capacity to meet the rising demand.
RNS President Rajesh Bhatta emphasized that the grant is project-specific. “This milestone belongs to the entire community,” Bhatta said. He noted the organization still carries approximately $1 million in loans from the initial facility acquisition and urged ongoing donations: “Continued support from our community remains critically important… so that together we can secure financial stability.”
RNS expressed gratitude to Senator Schumer, federal lawmakers, and community members whose “direct and indirect cooperation” fueled this achievement. The society vows to use the funds responsibly to promote cultural heritage, economic empowerment, and long-term sustainability.
Kishor Panthi
View More PostsKishor Panthi is the founder and editor-in-chief of Khasokhas and NepYork. He is the author of three books, “Kampan,” "UNTRANSLATABLE" and “Zero Mile.” He writes about social issues, immigration, and politics.
