Live updates
GEM's interactieve real-time updates voor donateurs laten je continu zien waar we staan in de missie met statistieken, toewijzing en distributiecijfers. Donateurs kunnen doneren aan een missie en zich betrokken voelen door onmiddellijk de resultaten te zien.
Jul 11
IMPORTANT TEXAS FLOODS UPDATE
Please take a moment to watch this short video highlighting fascinating survivor stories of bravery and resilience. We’re actively responding to the devastating flooding in Kerr County and here’s the critical programs we’ve implemented on the ground this first week.
• $1,050,000 in direct BStrong Cash Card assistance will be distributed by July 31, 2025, thanks to the incredible support of @BethennyFrankel’s BStrong, the David & Nicole Tepper Foundation, and the Sergey Brin Family Foundation.
• $150,000+ in Small Business Recovery Grants to help local entrepreneurs and business owners rebuild, made possible by the Bikerstaff Family Foundation.
• 2 full-size semi-trucks of essential aid have already been delivered to the region.
• $1.7 million in air purifiers are en route to shelters and homes to improve air quality in affected areas.
Global Empowerment Mission will remain on the ground indefinitely.
Just as we’ve been in Haiti every day for 15 years, in Ukraine for over 3 years, and in Maui, Los Angeles, and North Carolina without pause, we will continue to stand with Texas for as long as it takes.
#GlobalEmpowermentMission #BStrong #KerrCounty #TexasFloods #DisasterRelief #CommunityRecovery #OnTheGround #FloodResponse #kerrcounty #texas #hunttexas ##kerrville #bumblebeehills
Jul 11
Prime Minister @andrewholnessjm in Kingston, Jamaica at the National Commerce Bank’s National Tribute to Partnerships & Recovery. Prime Minister thanked our work for #hurricaneberyl. Ministers, distinguished leaders and dedicated partners all came together to show the world what true collaboration looks like in times of crisis.
GEM prides itself on good public/private partnerships. Following the PM’s words are GEM founder, @michaelcapponi’s speech on what GEM has done in the last year in Jamaica.
Just 48 hours after Beryl devastated Jamaica, our first cargo plane touched down. Within days, clean water was restored to Treasure Beach through the deployment of a large generator. Days later, roof repairs started. Fast forward one year and our incredible GEM Caribbean branch led by @deikamorrison was able to repair 738 roofs. We could not have done this without the best comunity partner @jasonhenzell, @bredstreasurebeach and @iom.jamaica. GEM funds were matched by @ncbfoundation and without their support this program would not have happened.
Thank you @lyn.thalia and everyone who made this possible. Also pleased to announce that the PM’s office has granted GEM a major warehouse in Kingston where our GEM Carribean branch will preposition emergency supplies in case any other potential storms may hit this region. #jamaica🇯🇲 #hurricaneberyl @goldeneye #bstrong @mairoliver @marlonhill @sflcaribbeanstrong #Tankwell #hurricaneberyl #jamaica
Jul 11
It’s been 6 months since wildfires tore through @countyofla destroying homes, displacing families, and closing down countless local businesses.
Since day one, Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) #BStrong has been on the ground delivering over $9 million in relief, including BStrong Cash Cards from @bethennyfrankel , emergency supplies, and long-term recovery support.
Through our Rental Assistance Program (RAP), we’re helping families who lost everything find safe and stable housing as they rebuild their lives. And we’re standing with small businesses, because strong local economies are the backbone of resilient communities. Our Small Business Program is helping owners reopen, recover, and keep their dreams and livelihood alive. These programs would not have been possible without the generosity of a $1 Million grant from the David Geffen Foundation. This grant will allow us to continue these initiatives through this fall.
GEM USA West teams are committed to long term recovery and plan to be on the ground possibly for the next 3-5 years. We will continue delivering financial assistance and essential aid in direct partnership for the long-term with local leaders, and through our smart partnerships with the @davidgeffen Foundation, #BStrong, @jefferies @stableroadfoundation, #DavidandNicoleTepperFoundation, @good360usa, @airbnb Org, @amazon, @goyafoods, @goyacares, #Give #StevenandAlexandraCohenFoundation @flexport, and @unitedwaypbc
🎥 Watch the video for a closer look at how your support is making an impact in Los Angeles. To learn and how you can help, please visit the link in our bio section.
#GEM #BStrong #LARecovery #DisasterRelief #Community #SmallBusinessRecovery #humanitarian #RentalAssistance #LosAngeles #Fires
Jul 11
GEM’s Charles McBryde joins @carlnasman with @bbcnews to discuss our ongoing response in Kerr County, Texas, where GEM BStrong teams are on the ground following the devastating storm that has claimed 120 lives, with many still missing.Our teams are providing urgent relief and standing with affected families during this heartbreaking time. @charlesmcbryde
To learn more and see how you can support this critical mission, please visit the link in our bio.
#GEM #BStrong #Texas #flood #DisasterResponse #KerrCounty #BBC #globalempowermentmission
Jul 9
GEM Founder and President @michaelcapponi joined @newsnationnow to discuss ongoing relief efforts on the ground at the epicenter of the devastating #GuadalupeRiver floods in Texas. He shared how our #GEM #BStrong teams are actively supporting individuals and families impacted by this historic flash flood. #Hunt #Texas #disasterrelief #CampMystic #hillcountry #kerrville @evargastv #newsnation
8 juli
In the heart of a war-torn nation, hope takes root, one seed at a time.
It’s truly inspiring to witness the harvest from local farms across Ukraine — crops that began as humble seeds distributed by our teams as part of the GEM HGBF Seeds Program. These aren’t just seeds, they are symbols of resilience, dignity, and survival.
Ukraine, often called the breadbasket of Europe, has long nourished the world with its fertile soil and generations of hardworking farmers. Today, despite the hardships of war, that legacy endures. Local farmers are once again planting their fields, harvesting crops, and feeding their communities, all made possible by these humble seed packs.
This year alone, we’ve distributed over 5.2 million seed packs to communities throughout the country.
#hgbf #ukraine #gemmissions #harvest #seeds
8 juli
GEM Founder & President @MichaelCapponi met with Hunt, Texas Fire Chief Lee Pool to assess the ongoing situation and coordinate local response efforts. This fire station now serves as one of our official GEM BStrong base camps and aid distribution points for the affected community.
Starting tomorrow and continuing daily throughout the week, residents of Hunt, Texas are invited to visit the fire station located at: 151 FM 1340, Hunt, TX 78024, to receive critical supplies, Bstrong cash cards and emergency assistance from GEM Bstrong.
Our teams are on the ground to support those impacted and ensure that vital resources are delivered directly to where they’re needed most. To learn more and to support this mission, please visit the link in our bio. #GEM #gemmissions @bethennyfrankel #bstrong #hunt #texas #campmystic #davidandnicoletepperfoundation
Jul 7
Sadly the death toll continues to rise following the devastating flash floods that tore through Texas Hill Country over the Fourth of July weekend. (As of 10pm EST) At least 80 lives have been lost — including 28 children in Kerr County. Authorities report that 10 girls and one counselor from Camp Mystic are still missing. When the floods struck, more than 750 children were attending the camp.
GEM BStrong teams have been on the ground since yesterday, responding with urgency and compassion. We’re providing immediate support to evacuated and displaced residents, including @bethennyfrankel’s BStrong Cash Cards for those in crisis.
Trucks filled with GEM Family Necessity Kits are en route, bringing critical relief to families who’ve lost everything in this historic and tragic event.
Our hearts are with every parent, child, and community member affected.
To support ongoing efforts, visit the link in our bio.
#GEM #BStrong #DisasterResponse #TexasHillCountry #HumanitarianAid #CampMystic #GEMmissions #Texas #Flood #Kerrville #Hunt
4 juli
Happy Fourth of July from Team GEM! Wishing you a day filled with freedom, fireworks, and the joy of celebrating the land we love. Here’s to independence, unity, and the American spirit! 🇺🇸
Jul 3
One Year Later: Hurricane Beryl Recovery
One year ago, Hurricane Beryl tore through the Caribbean with unprecedented force, becoming the strongest June hurricane ever recorded. In its path, homes were leveled, families displaced, and entire communities left shattered.
But from the very first moment, and every day since, Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) has been there.
This video offers a powerful look into the long road to recovery, one paved with compassion, resilience, and action. From emergency aid drops and rebuilding homes, and providing ongoing support to the most vulnerable, GEM has remained boots-on-the-ground, not just for the crisis, but for the comeback.
Because we don’t just respond to disasters, we walk with communities through every step of their healing and recovery. Watch the full journey of hope, strength, and transformation in this 1 year re-cap video. Happy to share that our GEM Carribbean branch led by @deikamorrison was able to repair over 700 roofs. You can hear firsthand testimonials from Jamaicans that no one else ever came to help them in many areas.
GEM’s ability to respond swiftly and effectively to large-scale disasters like Hurricane Beryl is made possible by our powerful partnership model. These strategic alliances are the backbone of our mission, amplifying our impact and strengthening our reach when it matters most.
A heartfelt thank you to all of our incredible partners and supporters who help make this work possible: @bethennyfrankel #bstrong @sflcaribbeanstrong @caribbeanstrong @marlonhill @mairoliver @aieshamusic @jakestreasurebeach @nhef_jm @thecliffjamaica @airservint @luisvelasquezq01 @luisvelasquezma @globalempowermentmissionlatam @bredstreasurebeach @sumfest_festival @janicelyttlefoundation @ncbfoundation @kevinlyttle @kayebentley
#caribbeanconsularcorps IOM Jamaica, ODPEM, Chin’s Construction Ltd., YIPC
To support GEM’s continued work across the Caribbean, visit the link in our bio.
#HurricaneBeryl #GEMMissions #CaribbeanStrong #DisasterRelief #LongTermRecovery #HumanitarianCrisis #GlobalEmpowermentMission #BStrong #RebuildTogether #HopeInAction #OneYearLater #StrongerThanTheStorm
Jul 3
In response to the recent “boil water” notice impacting residents of Apalachicola, Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) has donated 20 pallets of clean drinking water to support ongoing water distribution efforts in the community.
After learning that the Office of Congressman Neal Dunn and other local elected officials were working to assist their constituents, GEM asked about immediate needs and coordinated with officials to deliver water. GEM stepped in to provide immediate relief by delivering pallets of bottled water to affected individuals and families across the region.
Providing rapid support to communities in times of need is at the heart of our mission,” said Michael Kesti, Chairman of Government Relations Group, LLC and lead on this initiative with GEM. “We are grateful to work alongside local and federal partners to ensure families in Apalachicola have access to clean, safe drinking water during this time.”
“We believe that no community should face the fear and hardship of losing access to clean water, added Michael Capponi, Founder and President of GEM. “We are honored to stand with the people of Apalachicola during this critical time.”
The donation, made in partnership with local distribution channels, will directly benefit residents as the city restores water quality following the crisis. GEM’s swift action aligns with its ongoing commitment to empowering communities impacted by natural disasters, humanitarian crises, and infrastructure challenges.
Residents of Apalachicola were recently advised that water is now safe to use following the lifting of the boil water notice, but many families continue to rely on bottled water as systems stabilize. #Apalachicola #Florida @drnealdunnfl2 @kestimw @city_of_apalachicola
26 jun
GEM is proud to partner with @wearegoodera on the Blue Sky Mission, designed to strengthen disaster response and recovery efforts before disaster strikes.
2025 is expected to be an above-average year, with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration forecasting heightened activity. The need for coordinated relief efforts is constant. That’s why GEM relies on corporate partners who support us through cash contributions, in-kind donations, and volunteer time to help us stay mission-ready.
The most impactful relief work happens before a disaster hits. That’s why we invite you to join us and Goodera during this Blue Sky Mission to help communities prepare, respond, and recover faster. To learn more about GEM, and how you can help, visit the link in our bio section. @wearegoodera #Goodera #GEM #blueskymission
Jun 24
Today, we take a moment to honor and remember the lives lost—and the countless others forever changed—by the Surfside Building Collapse.
Four years have passed since that tragic morning, but for many, the pain remains as present as ever. The echoes of that day still live in the hearts of families, survivors, and a community that will never forget.
In the aftermath of unimaginable loss, our South Florida community rose with strength and compassion. Global Empowerment Mission was proud to stand alongside first responders, neighbors, and supporters like you—mobilizing urgent relief, raising critical funds, and delivering comfort in a time of profound sorrow.
#SurfsideStrong #NeverForget #GEMissions #Community #surfside
Jun 14
UKRAINE JUNE MISSiONS UPDATE…….
GEM’s President and Ukrainian Programs Director have just completed their bi-monthly, 3,000-mile oversight tour across six frontline regions in Ukraine.
Our @globalempowermentmissionua branch—in partnership with the Howard G. Buffett Foundation—leads across all of the following UN-cluster sectors:
1. Food Kit Deliveries
• 5,601,786 family-necessity kits distributed (non-perishable food & hygiene supplies)
• 346,712,919 meals served to date
2. Bottled Water
• 32,733,681 bottles delivered
3. Seed & Livelihoods
• 8,133,219 seed packs provided to support agricultural recovery
4. Residential Repairs (SME)
• 244,811 windows replaced in residential homes, apartments buildings, schools and hospitals across Ukraine.
In these slides you will see the various types of distributions that we do on a daily basis. We’re currently servicing 850 towns and villages per month. GEM ensures vital aid gets placed directly in civilian’s hands.
#Ukraine #Kharkiv #Kherson #Donetsk #Dnipro #Summy
12 jun
This past weekend, Global Empowerment Mission (GEM), in partnership with @farmsharefl hosted statewide distributions across Florida to mark the start of the 2025 hurricane season. Families received essential supplies and resources to help them stay prepared in the event of an emergency.
Now in its second year, this initiative continues to raise awareness about the importance of hurricane preparedness and strengthen community resilience across the state.
To learn more or find out how you can support our mission, visit www.GlobalEmpowermentMission.org or click the link in our bio. #GEM #BStrong #GEMmissions #hurricane #hurricanepreparedness #florida #farmshare
Jun 5
Continuing the Mission in Lahaina: Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) Hawai’i, in partnership with Stable Road Foundation and Maui Brewing Co, is proud to continue our commitment to long-term housing solutions after the 2023 Lahaina wildfire.
We’ve already placed 7 ADUs (Accessory Dwelling Units) on family properties in the burn zone, helping survivors return to their land while they rebuild. Now, we’re honored to support the Lahaina Jodo Mission, a spiritual and cultural cornerstone since 1912, by placing two ADUs on-site.
The devastating fire destroyed the temple, pagoda, bell tower, and more — but the bronze Amida Buddha still remains, a symbol of hope and resilience.
These two 2-bedroom Castleblock units will serve as the Minister’s residence and office, allowing Rev. Gensho Hara and his wife, who have lovingly cared for the mission for over 60 years, to remain present as this sacred site rebuilds.
A heartfelt thank you to our incredible donor partners @stableroadfoundation and @mauibrewingco for making this project possible.
In honoring the past, we help lay the foundation for the future. @globalempowermentmissionhawaii #Maui #lahaina #strong
4 jun
GEM is proud to serve as the official disaster relief partner for Miami-Dade County. Yesterday, we hosted our Annual Hurricane Preparedness Press Conference at GEM HQ—bringing together leaders and partners from across the U.S. and the entire Caribbean region.
This video captures powerful and key insights from the event.
Thanks to these long-standing partnerships, GEM is uniquely positioned and ready to respond immediately the moment a hurricane strikes—anywhere it hits.
Take a minute to watch and see how prepared and prepositioned we are for the 2025 hurricane season.
To learn more and how you can help support these efforts, please visit the link in our bio section. #GEM #BStrong #HurricanePreparedness #disasterrelief
3 jun
Yesterday, as the 2025 hurricane season approaches, Global Empowerment Mission (GEM) and @bethennyfrankel’s #BStrong joined forces with @miamidadecounty, @sflcaribbeanstrong, @flewthecoop_ , and an incredible coalition of regional and international partners to officially launch a Coordinated Plan of Action—strengthening disaster preparedness and first-response efforts across the U.S. and Caribbean.
At GEM’s Hurricane Preparedness Press Conference, GEM leadership and Emergency Response Directors were joined by Miami-Dade County Mayor @mayordlc Daniella Levine Cava, @marlonhill of Caribbean Strong, Hon. R. Oliver Mair of Jamaica, and the Caribbean Consular Corps Miami (CCC) representing Antigua & Barbuda, The Bahamas, Barbados, Grenada, Haiti, Jamaica, St. Lucia, and Trinidad & Tobago—united under the shared motto: “Strength in Unity.”
“GEM has proven itself to be incredibly nimble. With support from corporate sponsors, GEM provides emergency kits almost immediately after a storm, sets up distribution hubs in affected areas, and can even fly in aid via helicopter,” said Mayor Daniella Levine Cava.
New this year: GEM’s animal welfare arm Flew The Coop® is expanding its mission to protect pets during disasters—launching a new national partnership with FidoAlert, the leading free lost pet alert network. 🐾 Families can now sign up for FREE lifesaving pet resources before hurricane season at www.fidoalert.com/flewthecoop
With 373 missions completed across 73 countries and all 50 U.S. states, delivering over $627 million in aid and supplies to date, GEM continues to drive fast, efficient, and community-centered disaster response.
Learn more and how you can support hurricane preparedness, please visit the link in our bio or globalempowermentmission.org
#StrengthInUnity #HurricanePreparedness #Community #DisasterRelief #PetPreparedness #GEM #BStrong #FlewTheCoop #CaribbeanStrong @nbc6 @lauranbc6
1 juni
Today marks the official start of the 2025 hurricane season.
This weekend, GEM’s U.S. Director of Field Missions, Kimberley Bentley, was on the ground at key preparedness events in both Doral and Fort Lauderdale—helping strengthen connections, share critical knowledge, and build resilience across our region.
In Doral, Kimberley attended the Doral Disaster Fair, where she engaged with city officials, local organizations, and businesses committed to helping residents prepare for, survive, and recover from hurricane emergencies. Officials expressed deep appreciation for GEM’s ongoing efforts and are looking forward to tomorrow’s GEM Hurricane Preparedness Press Conference.
She also joined the “Eye of the Storm” event in Fort Lauderdale—a dynamic gathering focused on hurricane science, mitigation, and preparedness. Here, Kimberley collaborated with partners from Miami-Dade Department of Emergency Management and Broward County Emergency Management, Florida Power & Light (FPL), and other regional stakeholders to advance preparedness conversations ahead of what is forecast to be an active season. Together, we are stronger and ready to serve. @kayebentley @miamidadeem @browardemd @insidefpl #GEM #HurricanePreparedness #hurricane #season
31 mei
A day of hope. A day of healing. A day of heart. 💙
Today, in partnership with San Diego VOAD, and our partners at @frontlineimpact - GEM USA West proudly hosted a large scale Recovery Pop-Up for families impacted by the devastating 2024 floods.
Back in January, relentless floodwaters surged through Southeast San Diego—an unforgiving river that swallowed homes, memories, and the very foundation thousands once stood on. Over six feet of water consumed entire neighborhoods, leaving heartbreak in its wake.
Nearly a year and a half later, the need remains deep, and the wounds are still mending. But today—something powerful happened.
We came together—partners, community members, and volunteers—not only to deliver critical recovery resources through our LTRGs and DCMs, but to restore hope and bring moments of joy to those who have lost so much.
✨ There was laughter and games.
🎶 Live music that lifted the spirit.
🍽️ Delicious food that united us.
💇🏽♂️ Free haircuts that helped families feel whole again.
But most importantly, today gave our flood survivors something truly rare: a moment of normalcy. A chance to smile, to reconnect, and to know they are seen, heard, and cared for.
This is what true recovery looks like. It’s about more than rebuilding homes. It’s about rebuilding hearts. Restoring dignity. And reminding every family—you are not alone.
Together, we rise. 💛
#FrontlineImpact #GEMMissions #SanDiegoVOAD #FloodRecovery #CommunityStrong #HopeInAction #TogetherWeHeal #gemusawest #GEM #SanDiego #California
