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GEM’s Hawaiʻi history began with the 2018 #Kīlaueaeruption. Our Hawaiʻi-Pacific branch continues to serve communities across the islands.
MAUI | 2023–2026
After the wildfires, with government agencies, local organizations & @airbnb GEM:
• Distributed $485,000 in emergency cash cards with @sailtrilogy.
• Helped 1,283 people access emergency housing and 230 households find short-term housing.
• Provided $250,000 in rental aid to 100 households.
• Operated the county-requested Westside Distribution Center, serving 1,000–5,000 households weekly for seven months.
• Supplied $150,000 in tools to 150 tradespeople with @edfreedman.
• Housed 300+ FEMA-ineligible households (850 people) for 6–18 months, completing the $28 million state program $6 million under budget.
• With @stableroadfoundation , renovated Sacred Hearts School’s temporary campus for 200+ students.
• Provided housing navigation to 2,000+ households and continues housing assistance.
• With Stable Road Foundation and @mauigarrett, installed seven accessory dwelling units.
• Supported rebuilding Lahaina Jodo Mission, including a residence and office for Rev. Gensho Hara and his wife, who have cared for it for 60+ years.
MOLOKAʻI | 2025
With @peacewinds, delivered 20+ generators to vulnerable households during a planned weeklong outage.
OʻAHU & MAUI | 2026
Provided emergency cash assistance after the March Kona Low storms.
HAWAIʻI ISLAND | 2018-2026
Kīlauea eruption 2018: distribution of vital necessities and cash cards. Hurricane Lala, cash cards, launched a $100,000 small business grant program and established a Hilo emergency supply warehouse by @tym.hawaii @uniqlousa
KAUAʻI | 2026
After #HurricaneLowell, distributed cash cards. With Stable Road Foundation, deployed 60 loaner generators; with the State of Hawaiʻi, distributed 200+ solar battery banks for current and future emergencies.
STATEWIDE | 2026
With @alohaunitedway, @familypromiseofhawaii and community partners, GEM provides disaster case management for #KonaLow, #HurricaneLala and Lowell, and #Kona earthquake survivors, with capacity for 83 case managers.
Mahalo to everyone standing with Hawaiʻi. 🌺
CHOQUE DE GIGANTES | BASEBALL WITH A PURPOSE
Before taking the field this weekend, two-time World Series champion Miguel Rojas joined Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) at our headquarters to pack relief boxes for families affected by the earthquake in Venezuela.
His visit helped kick off Choque de Gigantes, bringing Venezuela’s beloved Navegantes del Magallanes and Tiburones de La Guaira to loanDepot park this Saturday, November 14, and Sunday, November 15, for a celebration of baseball, Venezuelan culture and community.
Rojas will proudly represent Venezuela with Tiburones de La Guaira in the two-game series, where the impact will reach far beyond the ballpark. A portion of proceeds from ticket sales, commemorative souvenir cups and the 50/50 raffle will benefit GEM and We Love Foundation, supporting ongoing earthquake relief efforts in Venezuela in collaboration with the Miami Marlins.
From packing relief boxes to bringing fans together in the stands, this weekend is a chance to celebrate Venezuela while helping families back home.
Thank you to Miguel Rojas, the Miami Marlins and We Love Foundation for helping turn a shared love of baseball into support for communities recovering.
Join us for a great weekend of baseball with an even greater purpose. @loandepotpark @marlins @miggyslocker @welove_foundation
Tickets and more ways to give back: marlins.com/choque
#GlobalEmpowermentMission #ChoqueDeGigantes #MiguelRojas #Venezuela #marlins
GEM X STABLE ROAD | Standing with Kauaʻi in the aftermath of Hurricane Lowell.
When Hurricane Lowell struck Kauaʻi, approximately 33,000 utility customers, nearly 90% of the island, were left without power, with some communities facing extended outages.
Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) quickly deployed to support impacted communities, providing emergency power, financial assistance, and recovery resources.
Through our Generator and Solar Battery Loaner Program, GEM loaned out 60 generators and over 200 solar-powered battery banks, helping families access critical electricity while power was being restored.
Our team also distributed $12,500 in cash assistance cards to impacted households.
GEM supported Neighborhood Resource Centers in Kōloa and Hanalei, helping connect residents with essential resources and recovery assistance.
Building resilience beyond the immediate response: These generators and solar-powered battery banks will remain on Kauaʻi as shared community resources, available for deployment during future power outages and emergencies. This ensures the equipment continues to serve local communities long after the initial disaster response.
The generators were generously donated by @edfreedman @stableroadfoundation, a dedicated GEM partner since the 2023 Maui wildfires. Their continued commitment to disaster relief and recovery has helped us support communities across Hawaiʻi when they need it most. Additional support from @amazon & @good360usa helped make this relief mission possible.
A special mahalo to our incredible local partners:
Hanalei Initiative for their invaluable assistance with the distribution and storage of generators and battery banks. Mahalo to @kazi.jay and @_kawenak_ for all around program support.
Bonilla Motorsports for their generous support with transportation and storage, helping move critical supplies to communities in need.
We are deeply grateful to our donors, local partners, and the Kauaʻi community for coming together during this challenging time. @globalempowermentmissionhawaii
Together, we’re not just responding to disasters, we’re helping communities prepare for the next one. @tym.hawaii @uniqlousa
GEM in partnership with HGBF continue to stand alongside people recently evacuated from Oleshky, working in close coordination with the Ombudsman’s @dmytro_lubinets Office to ensure their needs are heard and addressed.
Last week, our teams visited temporary accommodation sites, where we listened to residents, documented their concerns, and identified their most pressing needs.
We also provided food assistance to evacuees travelling to reunite with relatives in different parts of Ukraine, helping ease some of the challenges they face during this difficult transition.
We remain committed to supporting those affected by displacement, ensuring that people receive not only essential assistance but also care, dignity, and a sense that they are not alone. 🇺🇦
Deika Morrison serves as Executive Director of Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) Caribbean.
As a teenager, she lived through Hurricane Gilbert in Jamaica. For months, there was no electricity or running water. Living through the storm was one thing; living through its aftermath was another. The experience influenced her decision to study water and environmental systems, alongside economics and finance. She went on to earn degrees from the School of Engineering and Applied Science and The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, as well as the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences at Harvard University.
Her career spans business, consulting and public service, including serving as a legislator, regulator and policymaker. Her work across the Caribbean has connected her with communities, organizations and the diaspora. She has also worked extensively with children and in education.
Following Hurricane Beryl’s impact on Jamaica, Deika reached out to GEM to help affected communities and went on to lead its rebuilding efforts. She also proposed a GEM Caribbean headquarters in Kingston and negotiated memoranda of understanding with Jamaica’s Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) and the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) to strengthen disaster response coordination.
Her current focus includes supporting families, restoring homes and helping schools and communities recover following major disasters, including Hurricane Melissa.
For Deika, the work is about being prepared to help when it matters - bringing resources, relationships and local understanding together to help communities rebuild and become more resilient. To learn more about the important work that Deika is doing on the ground to help Jamaica recover, visit the link in our bio or GEM.org @deikamorrison
GAZA UPDATE | FACING THE WINTER TOGETHER
As heavy rains flood tents across Gaza, families face another struggle: keeping their children warm and dry.
Throughout October, GEM MENA ground teams reached thousands of displaced families and children despite enormous challenges, delivering food, hygiene supplies and clean water while preparing shelter and classrooms.
Food kits reached 1,644 households, 8,289 people across camps in Khan Younis, Central Gaza and Gaza, helping parents who have lost their homes and income put meals on the table.
Another 62,480 kg of bulk food is ready for distribution: flour, rice, lentils, chickpeas, white beans, sunflower oil, pasta, bulgur, tuna, sweet corn, chopped tomato and sugar.
With GEM Europe / HumanDoc, hygiene kits reached 560 households, 2,690 people. Through HCI, another 3,521 orphaned children received hygiene kits. Where soap and clean water are scarce, these essentials help protect against skin diseases and infections while preserving dignity.
Teams supplied 114 m³ of clean drinking water to 12 camps across the Gaza Strip, helping prevent waterborne illness and diarrhea, serious threats to displaced children.
In southern Gaza, our new education center is complete. Six classrooms are ready to welcome 270 orphaned children, with school bags and stationery for every child. After years of disrupted schooling, a classroom offers routine, safety and hope.
Of 5,000 tents on the way, the first 684 have arrived for families in greatest need. As winter closes in, shelter offers protection from the cold and rain.
A meal, clean water, a classroom, a dry place to sleep, each delivery supports a family facing another uncertain day. Every distribution is documented and tracked so aid reaches those it is intended for.
Stand with the families of Gaza this winter. Learn more at the link in our bio or GEM.org @hcicanada @globalempowermentmissionmena @globalempowermentmissioneur
TWO YEARS OF IMPACT IN JAMAICA 🇯🇲
Hurricanes Melissa & Beryl Update
Since Hurricane Beryl struck in 2024, GEM has stood alongside Jamaica through two devastating hurricanes. Just over a year later, Category 5 Hurricane Melissa tore away roofs, damaged schools and forced families still rebuilding to begin again.
Since 2024, GEM has installed or repaired over 1,200 roofs across Jamaica, helping families reclaim the safety of home.
We’ve repaired and replaced school roofs and built temporary classrooms so children can keep learning while permanent facilities are restored.
Our 2025–2026 Melissa response includes:
• $16,345,655 in humanitarian aid delivered
• Over 4.15 million pounds of aid distributed
• 25 cargo planes, 74 shipping containers and 7 cruise ships supporting deliveries
• 12 school roof repairs
• 30 temporary classrooms constructed
• More than 3,000 volunteers activated
Behind every roof is a family finding security again. Behind every classroom is a child whose future cannot wait.
Our teams have also supported health centres, delivered essential supplies and installed solar streetlights where prolonged outages left communities in darkness, prioritizing older adults, people with disabilities, pregnant women and families with young children.
With two Kingston warehouses and a permanent GEM Caribbean branch, our local teams remain committed to long-term recovery alongside ODPEM, CDEMA, our donors, partners and volunteers.
Jamaica, your resilience and determination inspire us every day. We’re here, and we’ll keep showing up.
Thank you to our incredible partners:
@sficaribbeanstrong @lyn.thalia @afjcares @romarley @iomjamaica @statedept @wegmans @bobmarleyfoundation @irie @odpem @ghettoyouthsfoundation @jdfsoldier @direalshaggy @royalcaribbean @iom.jamaica @foodforthepoorja @tdbank_us @bankunited.official @crownfoundation @mairoliver @marlonhill @airlinkflight @dhlus @jetblue @pbunitedway @heartofoceanreef
#Jamaica #HurricaneMelissa #HurricaneBeryl #DisasterRecovery #RebuildingCommunities
By All Means Necessary 🇺🇦
To date, Global Empowerment Mission (GEM), in partnership with the Howard G. Buffett Foundation, has successfully delivered 10 tons of humanitarian aid into Oleshky, Kherson Oblast, Ukraine, in coordination with the Governor of Kherson.
Despite the extraordinary challenges of reaching vulnerable communities in frontline and hard-to-access areas, our teams remain committed to finding innovative solutions and utilizing every safe, authorized means necessary to deliver lifesaving assistance to those who need it most.
Our deepest gratitude to Howard G. Buffett for his unwavering commitment, leadership, and continued support for the people of Ukraine.
By all means necessary, we will continue finding ways to reach those who need us most. 🇺🇦
🇻🇪 WHEN EVERY SECOND COUNTS | VIDEO RECAP
A look back at our panel at @startupvenezuela_ in #Caracas, bringing together humanitarian response and engineering expertise in the aftermath of Venezuela’s June 24 earthquake.
Moderated by @alina.capponi, EVP of Global Affairs at @globalempowermentmission, the conversation featured @kitmiyamoto, founder and Global CEO of @miyamoto_international, alongside GEM President & Founder @michaelcapponi.
Working in partnership with the U.S. @statedept and @usembassyve, Miyamoto International is advancing structural assessments and recovery planning, while @globalempowermentmissionlatam and @welove_foundation continue delivering critical humanitarian assistance to affected communities.
Special thanks to @etorbar, our partners, donors, and the Venezuelan diaspora for making this collective effort possible.
#Venezuela #EarthquakeRecovery #HumanitarianResponse
VENEZUELA EARTHQUAKE | 4-MONTH MISSION RECAP
Today marks 4 months since the devastating twin earthquakes struck Venezuela. Our @globalempowermentmissionlatam VZ and @welove_foundation teams have been on the ground since the beginning and will continue to maintain offices and a warehouse in La Guaira, distributing aid on a daily basis for as long as there is a need.
As of today, our earthquake response, in partnership with @statedept, the Venezuelan diaspora, and @welove_foundation, has delivered $50 MILLION in humanitarian aid, 9,538 pallets totaling 8.1 MILLION pounds, 32 cargo planes, 375 shipping containers, and 5 military landing craft, supporting over 250,000 people per month. WE ARE COMMITTED TO DOUBLING THIS BY THE 1-year mark on June 24, 2027, therefore reaching $100 MILLION IN AID FOR #VENEZUELA.
There is still much work ahead, and our commitment to the Venezuelan people remains unwavering. Very special gratitude to all of our mission partners: @oceanbankus @miamidolphins @amazon @manacommon @publix @royalcaribbean @bankofamerica @felixpago @pricesmart @braves @redsox @astros @aman @loandepot @onespaworld @owpbrokers @bankunited.official @cadillacchampionship @goyafoods @goyagives @edringtonamericas @monatofficial @intermiamicf @themiamifc @sperformancehub @univisionfoundation @univision @televisaunivision @virginunite
PANAMA EARTHQUAKE | GEM LATAM Disaster Response
Following the devastating earthquake and aftershocks across Panama, Global Empowerment Mission (GEM), in coordination with the U.S. Department of State, DHL, the Government of Panama, and First Lady Maricel de Mulino, mobilized a humanitarian response to assist affected communities.
On October 16, a cargo flight from Miami delivered 100 pallets of emergency supplies - more than 43 metric tons of aid valued at over $375,000 USD. The shipment included Family Necessity Kits, food, hygiene supplies, mattresses, blankets, tarps, and other essentials.
Following ground assessments led by GEM LATAM Director of Operations Luis Velasquez, our teams began multi-day distributions across Veraguas, Herrera, and Los Santos, reaching remote coastal villages and rural communities with difficult road access.
From Mariato, Malena, Torio, and Palo Seco to Soná, Santiago, La Mesa, Pesé, Tonosí, Playa Venao, and Macaracas, GEM worked with local authorities and volunteers to deliver aid directly to affected families.
On October 19, GEM joined U.S. Ambassador Kevin Marino Cabrera, Panamanian officials, and local leaders in Tonosí, providing assistance to more than 300 families and delivering 200 school desks to support local schools.
GEM is also coordinating with the Chabad community in Playa Venao to identify ongoing recovery needs. @chabadvenao @yariv_klein lapinamora
We thank the U.S. Department of State, U.S. Embassy in Panama, DHL, the Government of Panama, First Lady Maricel de Mulino, and all local partners and volunteers for making this mission possible.
Support GEM’s ongoing disaster response at GEM.org or the link in our bio. @statedept @dhl_global @mulinomaricel @ambassadorcabrera @usembpan
#GEM #PanamaEarthquake #HumanitarianAid #DisasterResponse
GEM USA WEST | CALIFORNIA WILDFIRES 🔥
When wildfires threaten our communities, every moment counts. Preparation is what makes rapid response possible.
Thanks to GEM’s year-round prepositioning of emergency supplies and resources, our teams are already delivering critical relief supplies today across Southern California, supporting communities impacted by the latest wildfires.
GEM USA West maintains teams in Los Angeles and Chico, Northern California, allowing us to mobilize quickly when disaster strikes. Our teams have spent years responding to devastating wildfires, supporting survivors through immediate relief and the long road to recovery.
We know firsthand what wildfire devastation looks like. The 2018 Camp Fire burned 153,336 acres, destroyed 18,804 structures, and claimed 85 civilian lives. For our Northern California team, this tragedy remains deeply personal. Behind every statistic is a family, a home, and a community whose life has been changed forever.
Today, our teams are closely monitoring the Norte Fire in Orange County, which has burned approximately 570 acres, reached 25% containment, and damaged or destroyed at least seven homes. The fire initially forced approximately 16,000 residents to evacuate, with evacuation orders since lifted as firefighters made significant progress.
Strong Santa Ana winds and dry conditions continue to underscore the importance of preparedness across Southern California.
From Chico to Los Angeles, GEM USA West is positioned not just to respond, but to respond immediately.
Because effective disaster response isn’t just about showing up after the flames are extinguished. It’s about preparing long before disaster strikes, delivering help when it’s needed most, and standing alongside families throughout recovery.
When disaster strikes, GEM USA West is already in motion.
#GEMUSAWest #DisasterResponse #WildfireRelief #CaliforniaWildfires #CommunityRecovery @good360usa @amazon
GEM’s Hawaiʻi history began with the 2018 #Kīlaueaeruption. Our Hawaiʻi-Pacific branch continues to serve communities across the islands.
MAUI | 2023–2026
After the wildfires, with government agencies, local organizations & @airbnb GEM:
• Distributed $485,000 in emergency cash cards with @sailtrilogy.
• Helped 1,283 people access emergency housing and 230 households find short-term housing.
• Provided $250,000 in rental aid to 100 households.
• Operated the county-requested Westside Distribution Center, serving 1,000–5,000 households weekly for seven months.
• Supplied $150,000 in tools to 150 tradespeople with @edfreedman.
• Housed 300+ FEMA-ineligible households (850 people) for 6–18 months, completing the $28 million state program $6 million under budget.
• With @stableroadfoundation , renovated Sacred Hearts School’s temporary campus for 200+ students.
• Provided housing navigation to 2,000+ households and continues housing assistance.
• With Stable Road Foundation and @mauigarrett, installed seven accessory dwelling units.
• Supported rebuilding Lahaina Jodo Mission, including a residence and office for Rev. Gensho Hara and his wife, who have cared for it for 60+ years.
MOLOKAʻI | 2025
With @peacewinds, delivered 20+ generators to vulnerable households during a planned weeklong outage.
OʻAHU & MAUI | 2026
Provided emergency cash assistance after the March Kona Low storms.
HAWAIʻI ISLAND | 2018-2026
Kīlauea eruption 2018: distribution of vital necessities and cash cards. Hurricane Lala, cash cards, launched a $100,000 small business grant program and established a Hilo emergency supply warehouse by @tym.hawaii @uniqlousa
KAUAʻI | 2026
After #HurricaneLowell, distributed cash cards. With Stable Road Foundation, deployed 60 loaner generators; with the State of Hawaiʻi, distributed 200+ solar battery banks for current and future emergencies.
STATEWIDE | 2026
With @alohaunitedway, @familypromiseofhawaii and community partners, GEM provides disaster case management for #KonaLow, #HurricaneLala and Lowell, and #Kona earthquake survivors, with capacity for 83 case managers.
Mahalo to everyone standing with Hawaiʻi. 🌺
CHOQUE DE GIGANTES | BASEBALL WITH A PURPOSE
Before taking the field this weekend, two-time World Series champion Miguel Rojas joined Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) at our headquarters to pack relief boxes for families affected by the earthquake in Venezuela.
His visit helped kick off Choque de Gigantes, bringing Venezuela’s beloved Navegantes del Magallanes and Tiburones de La Guaira to loanDepot park this Saturday, November 14, and Sunday, November 15, for a celebration of baseball, Venezuelan culture and community.
Rojas will proudly represent Venezuela with Tiburones de La Guaira in the two-game series, where the impact will reach far beyond the ballpark. A portion of proceeds from ticket sales, commemorative souvenir cups and the 50/50 raffle will benefit GEM and We Love Foundation, supporting ongoing earthquake relief efforts in Venezuela in collaboration with the Miami Marlins.
From packing relief boxes to bringing fans together in the stands, this weekend is a chance to celebrate Venezuela while helping families back home.
Thank you to Miguel Rojas, the Miami Marlins and We Love Foundation for helping turn a shared love of baseball into support for communities recovering.
Join us for a great weekend of baseball with an even greater purpose. @loandepotpark @marlins @miggyslocker @welove_foundation
Tickets and more ways to give back: marlins.com/choque
#GlobalEmpowermentMission #ChoqueDeGigantes #MiguelRojas #Venezuela #marlins
GEM X STABLE ROAD | Standing with Kauaʻi in the aftermath of Hurricane Lowell.
When Hurricane Lowell struck Kauaʻi, approximately 33,000 utility customers, nearly 90% of the island, were left without power, with some communities facing extended outages.
Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) quickly deployed to support impacted communities, providing emergency power, financial assistance, and recovery resources.
Through our Generator and Solar Battery Loaner Program, GEM loaned out 60 generators and over 200 solar-powered battery banks, helping families access critical electricity while power was being restored.
Our team also distributed $12,500 in cash assistance cards to impacted households.
GEM supported Neighborhood Resource Centers in Kōloa and Hanalei, helping connect residents with essential resources and recovery assistance.
Building resilience beyond the immediate response: These generators and solar-powered battery banks will remain on Kauaʻi as shared community resources, available for deployment during future power outages and emergencies. This ensures the equipment continues to serve local communities long after the initial disaster response.
The generators were generously donated by @edfreedman @stableroadfoundation, a dedicated GEM partner since the 2023 Maui wildfires. Their continued commitment to disaster relief and recovery has helped us support communities across Hawaiʻi when they need it most. Additional support from @amazon & @good360usa helped make this relief mission possible.
A special mahalo to our incredible local partners:
Hanalei Initiative for their invaluable assistance with the distribution and storage of generators and battery banks. Mahalo to @kazi.jay and @_kawenak_ for all around program support.
Bonilla Motorsports for their generous support with transportation and storage, helping move critical supplies to communities in need.
We are deeply grateful to our donors, local partners, and the Kauaʻi community for coming together during this challenging time. @globalempowermentmissionhawaii
Together, we’re not just responding to disasters, we’re helping communities prepare for the next one. @tym.hawaii @uniqlousa
GEM in partnership with HGBF continue to stand alongside people recently evacuated from Oleshky, working in close coordination with the Ombudsman’s @dmytro_lubinets Office to ensure their needs are heard and addressed.
Last week, our teams visited temporary accommodation sites, where we listened to residents, documented their concerns, and identified their most pressing needs.
We also provided food assistance to evacuees travelling to reunite with relatives in different parts of Ukraine, helping ease some of the challenges they face during this difficult transition.
We remain committed to supporting those affected by displacement, ensuring that people receive not only essential assistance but also care, dignity, and a sense that they are not alone. 🇺🇦
Deika Morrison serves as Executive Director of Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) Caribbean.
As a teenager, she lived through Hurricane Gilbert in Jamaica. For months, there was no electricity or running water. Living through the storm was one thing; living through its aftermath was another. The experience influenced her decision to study water and environmental systems, alongside economics and finance. She went on to earn degrees from the School of Engineering and Applied Science and The Wharton School at the University of Pennsylvania, as well as the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences at Harvard University.
Her career spans business, consulting and public service, including serving as a legislator, regulator and policymaker. Her work across the Caribbean has connected her with communities, organizations and the diaspora. She has also worked extensively with children and in education.
Following Hurricane Beryl’s impact on Jamaica, Deika reached out to GEM to help affected communities and went on to lead its rebuilding efforts. She also proposed a GEM Caribbean headquarters in Kingston and negotiated memoranda of understanding with Jamaica’s Office of Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management (ODPEM) and the Caribbean Disaster Emergency Management Agency (CDEMA) to strengthen disaster response coordination.
Her current focus includes supporting families, restoring homes and helping schools and communities recover following major disasters, including Hurricane Melissa.
For Deika, the work is about being prepared to help when it matters - bringing resources, relationships and local understanding together to help communities rebuild and become more resilient. To learn more about the important work that Deika is doing on the ground to help Jamaica recover, visit the link in our bio or GEM.org @deikamorrison
GAZA UPDATE | FACING THE WINTER TOGETHER
As heavy rains flood tents across Gaza, families face another struggle: keeping their children warm and dry.
Throughout October, GEM MENA ground teams reached thousands of displaced families and children despite enormous challenges, delivering food, hygiene supplies and clean water while preparing shelter and classrooms.
Food kits reached 1,644 households, 8,289 people across camps in Khan Younis, Central Gaza and Gaza, helping parents who have lost their homes and income put meals on the table.
Another 62,480 kg of bulk food is ready for distribution: flour, rice, lentils, chickpeas, white beans, sunflower oil, pasta, bulgur, tuna, sweet corn, chopped tomato and sugar.
With GEM Europe / HumanDoc, hygiene kits reached 560 households, 2,690 people. Through HCI, another 3,521 orphaned children received hygiene kits. Where soap and clean water are scarce, these essentials help protect against skin diseases and infections while preserving dignity.
Teams supplied 114 m³ of clean drinking water to 12 camps across the Gaza Strip, helping prevent waterborne illness and diarrhea, serious threats to displaced children.
In southern Gaza, our new education center is complete. Six classrooms are ready to welcome 270 orphaned children, with school bags and stationery for every child. After years of disrupted schooling, a classroom offers routine, safety and hope.
Of 5,000 tents on the way, the first 684 have arrived for families in greatest need. As winter closes in, shelter offers protection from the cold and rain.
A meal, clean water, a classroom, a dry place to sleep, each delivery supports a family facing another uncertain day. Every distribution is documented and tracked so aid reaches those it is intended for.
Stand with the families of Gaza this winter. Learn more at the link in our bio or GEM.org @hcicanada @globalempowermentmissionmena @globalempowermentmissioneur
TWO YEARS OF IMPACT IN JAMAICA 🇯🇲
Hurricanes Melissa & Beryl Update
Since Hurricane Beryl struck in 2024, GEM has stood alongside Jamaica through two devastating hurricanes. Just over a year later, Category 5 Hurricane Melissa tore away roofs, damaged schools and forced families still rebuilding to begin again.
Since 2024, GEM has installed or repaired over 1,200 roofs across Jamaica, helping families reclaim the safety of home.
We’ve repaired and replaced school roofs and built temporary classrooms so children can keep learning while permanent facilities are restored.
Our 2025–2026 Melissa response includes:
• $16,345,655 in humanitarian aid delivered
• Over 4.15 million pounds of aid distributed
• 25 cargo planes, 74 shipping containers and 7 cruise ships supporting deliveries
• 12 school roof repairs
• 30 temporary classrooms constructed
• More than 3,000 volunteers activated
Behind every roof is a family finding security again. Behind every classroom is a child whose future cannot wait.
Our teams have also supported health centres, delivered essential supplies and installed solar streetlights where prolonged outages left communities in darkness, prioritizing older adults, people with disabilities, pregnant women and families with young children.
With two Kingston warehouses and a permanent GEM Caribbean branch, our local teams remain committed to long-term recovery alongside ODPEM, CDEMA, our donors, partners and volunteers.
Jamaica, your resilience and determination inspire us every day. We’re here, and we’ll keep showing up.
Thank you to our incredible partners:
@sficaribbeanstrong @lyn.thalia @afjcares @romarley @iomjamaica @statedept @wegmans @bobmarleyfoundation @irie @odpem @ghettoyouthsfoundation @jdfsoldier @direalshaggy @royalcaribbean @iom.jamaica @foodforthepoorja @tdbank_us @bankunited.official @crownfoundation @mairoliver @marlonhill @airlinkflight @dhlus @jetblue @pbunitedway @heartofoceanreef
#Jamaica #HurricaneMelissa #HurricaneBeryl #DisasterRecovery #RebuildingCommunities
By All Means Necessary 🇺🇦
To date, Global Empowerment Mission (GEM), in partnership with the Howard G. Buffett Foundation, has successfully delivered 10 tons of humanitarian aid into Oleshky, Kherson Oblast, Ukraine, in coordination with the Governor of Kherson.
Despite the extraordinary challenges of reaching vulnerable communities in frontline and hard-to-access areas, our teams remain committed to finding innovative solutions and utilizing every safe, authorized means necessary to deliver lifesaving assistance to those who need it most.
Our deepest gratitude to Howard G. Buffett for his unwavering commitment, leadership, and continued support for the people of Ukraine.
By all means necessary, we will continue finding ways to reach those who need us most. 🇺🇦
🇻🇪 WHEN EVERY SECOND COUNTS | VIDEO RECAP
A look back at our panel at @startupvenezuela_ in #Caracas, bringing together humanitarian response and engineering expertise in the aftermath of Venezuela’s June 24 earthquake.
Moderated by @alina.capponi, EVP of Global Affairs at @globalempowermentmission, the conversation featured @kitmiyamoto, founder and Global CEO of @miyamoto_international, alongside GEM President & Founder @michaelcapponi.
Working in partnership with the U.S. @statedept and @usembassyve, Miyamoto International is advancing structural assessments and recovery planning, while @globalempowermentmissionlatam and @welove_foundation continue delivering critical humanitarian assistance to affected communities.
Special thanks to @etorbar, our partners, donors, and the Venezuelan diaspora for making this collective effort possible.
#Venezuela #EarthquakeRecovery #HumanitarianResponse
VENEZUELA EARTHQUAKE | 4-MONTH MISSION RECAP
Today marks 4 months since the devastating twin earthquakes struck Venezuela. Our @globalempowermentmissionlatam VZ and @welove_foundation teams have been on the ground since the beginning and will continue to maintain offices and a warehouse in La Guaira, distributing aid on a daily basis for as long as there is a need.
As of today, our earthquake response, in partnership with @statedept, the Venezuelan diaspora, and @welove_foundation, has delivered $50 MILLION in humanitarian aid, 9,538 pallets totaling 8.1 MILLION pounds, 32 cargo planes, 375 shipping containers, and 5 military landing craft, supporting over 250,000 people per month. WE ARE COMMITTED TO DOUBLING THIS BY THE 1-year mark on June 24, 2027, therefore reaching $100 MILLION IN AID FOR #VENEZUELA.
There is still much work ahead, and our commitment to the Venezuelan people remains unwavering. Very special gratitude to all of our mission partners: @oceanbankus @miamidolphins @amazon @manacommon @publix @royalcaribbean @bankofamerica @felixpago @pricesmart @braves @redsox @astros @aman @loandepot @onespaworld @owpbrokers @bankunited.official @cadillacchampionship @goyafoods @goyagives @edringtonamericas @monatofficial @intermiamicf @themiamifc @sperformancehub @univisionfoundation @univision @televisaunivision @virginunite
PANAMA EARTHQUAKE | GEM LATAM Disaster Response
Following the devastating earthquake and aftershocks across Panama, Global Empowerment Mission (GEM), in coordination with the U.S. Department of State, DHL, the Government of Panama, and First Lady Maricel de Mulino, mobilized a humanitarian response to assist affected communities.
On October 16, a cargo flight from Miami delivered 100 pallets of emergency supplies - more than 43 metric tons of aid valued at over $375,000 USD. The shipment included Family Necessity Kits, food, hygiene supplies, mattresses, blankets, tarps, and other essentials.
Following ground assessments led by GEM LATAM Director of Operations Luis Velasquez, our teams began multi-day distributions across Veraguas, Herrera, and Los Santos, reaching remote coastal villages and rural communities with difficult road access.
From Mariato, Malena, Torio, and Palo Seco to Soná, Santiago, La Mesa, Pesé, Tonosí, Playa Venao, and Macaracas, GEM worked with local authorities and volunteers to deliver aid directly to affected families.
On October 19, GEM joined U.S. Ambassador Kevin Marino Cabrera, Panamanian officials, and local leaders in Tonosí, providing assistance to more than 300 families and delivering 200 school desks to support local schools.
GEM is also coordinating with the Chabad community in Playa Venao to identify ongoing recovery needs. @chabadvenao @yariv_klein lapinamora
We thank the U.S. Department of State, U.S. Embassy in Panama, DHL, the Government of Panama, First Lady Maricel de Mulino, and all local partners and volunteers for making this mission possible.
Support GEM’s ongoing disaster response at GEM.org or the link in our bio. @statedept @dhl_global @mulinomaricel @ambassadorcabrera @usembpan
#GEM #PanamaEarthquake #HumanitarianAid #DisasterResponse
GEM USA WEST | CALIFORNIA WILDFIRES 🔥
When wildfires threaten our communities, every moment counts. Preparation is what makes rapid response possible.
Thanks to GEM’s year-round prepositioning of emergency supplies and resources, our teams are already delivering critical relief supplies today across Southern California, supporting communities impacted by the latest wildfires.
GEM USA West maintains teams in Los Angeles and Chico, Northern California, allowing us to mobilize quickly when disaster strikes. Our teams have spent years responding to devastating wildfires, supporting survivors through immediate relief and the long road to recovery.
We know firsthand what wildfire devastation looks like. The 2018 Camp Fire burned 153,336 acres, destroyed 18,804 structures, and claimed 85 civilian lives. For our Northern California team, this tragedy remains deeply personal. Behind every statistic is a family, a home, and a community whose life has been changed forever.
Today, our teams are closely monitoring the Norte Fire in Orange County, which has burned approximately 570 acres, reached 25% containment, and damaged or destroyed at least seven homes. The fire initially forced approximately 16,000 residents to evacuate, with evacuation orders since lifted as firefighters made significant progress.
Strong Santa Ana winds and dry conditions continue to underscore the importance of preparedness across Southern California.
From Chico to Los Angeles, GEM USA West is positioned not just to respond, but to respond immediately.
Because effective disaster response isn’t just about showing up after the flames are extinguished. It’s about preparing long before disaster strikes, delivering help when it’s needed most, and standing alongside families throughout recovery.
When disaster strikes, GEM USA West is already in motion.
#GEMUSAWest #DisasterResponse #WildfireRelief #CaliforniaWildfires #CommunityRecovery @good360usa @amazon
Our main objectives are to deliver the most amount of aid, to the most amount of people in need, in the shortest amount of time and with the least amount of costs to our donors. This also applies to our rebuilding efforts.
Make checks payable and send them to:
Global Empowerment Mission
1850 NW 84TH AVE, SUITE 100 DORAL FL 33126
Please email: finance@
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Today, GEM has one of the highest dollar vs impact ratios across all disaster relief organizations, and is committed to disrupting disaster relief with a complete 180-degree response. We solve complex problems efficiently with innovative solutions, through smart partnerships, globally.
