Program areas at GEMS
In 2023, we served 142 members through our direct Services and facilitated over 350 virtual groups, including financial literacy, dealing with intimate partner violence, survivor-specific support groups, college now support groups, art, resume writing, parenting, creative writing, and more. On september 6, 2023, we successfully reopened our drop-in center to Girls and young women twice a week. Even though we have maintained virtual programming because of its accessibility, this space allows staff to engage more directly with the Girls and young women in our program, and provides safety, quiet, and community to members and their children. When the drop-in center is open, members are provided hot meals donated by a local church and pick up clothing, hygiene items, diapers and wipes, school and office supplies, pantry food, and specialty items as needed. Last year, we were able to support 61 members through the economic empowerment program, including resume writing, job readiness training, career guidance, employment retention support, navigating raises, promotion, and obtaining new employment. Also in 2023, 46 members participated in the Educational initiative program, including young women attending the college now group. Gems also provided housing and comprehensive support Services for 44 young women and six infants/children through our residential program in 2023, resulting in 13 residents and three children obtaining independent, permanent housing.