Programs
Needs vary depending on different disasters. GEM works effectively to most accurately serve affected communities in the most necessary way. Please see below for existing and active programs that Global Empowerment Mission has implemented throughout different responses. Please note, the activation of a program is based on many factors and may not be implemented after every disaster.
Family Necessity Kits
Our Family Necessity Kits are provided after every disaster and are a key component of what GEM is. Throughout our global branches, we are always prepositioned with our boxes in order to respond quickly after a disaster. Our boxes are filled with food, water, hygiene supplies, and other region-specific supplies. This could include mosquito nets, cleaning supplies, cold weather materials, etc. Our Family Necessity Kits have been a steady offering throughout our entire existence, and we thank our many corporate partners for supplying the goods within our boxes.
BStrong Cash Cards
In collaboration with Bethenny Frankle’s BStrong, GEM is able to provide those affected by a crisis with immediate financial assistance. In the first few hours and days after a disaster, many people are just in need of quick funds to help them get by. These funds are used at the discretion of the recipient and are generally used for hotel stays, gas, food, children’s supplies, pet supplies, and more.
Rental Assistance
Housing insecurity is a major threat after disaster that leaves families and individuals extremely vulnerable while waiting for insurance, government assistance, or other resources. Our rental assistance offerings vary depending on our response, but can come in the form of short or long term support. GEM is proud to partner with Airbnb.org after certain crises, as well as with our generous donors to implement housing support initiatives.
Small Business Grants
When a disaster strikes, loss of income is an unfortunate outcome for many that severely affects the possibility of recovery. For small business owners, the loss of their income, creative outlet, and hard work is devastating. Within our small business grant program, GEM has been able to provide financial assistance to cover rebuilding and relocation, tool and equipment replacement, and other business expenses so business owners can recover and continue to support themselves, as well as their communities.
Residential Rebuilds and Repairs
Being affected by a natural or man-made disaster is devastating for families and individuals. Losing one’s home is catastrophic. GEM deeply empathizes with those who have had their homes impacted, and therefore created a program to undertake residential rebuilding projects. We work very closely with homeowners and stakeholders to determine what the best course of action is to get residents back on their feet. Projects are selected on multiple factors, all with the goal of getting families back into a home that makes them feel safe and secure during a time of uncertainty.
Commercial Rebuilds
To keep communities together, the rebuilding of critical infrastructure is paramount after a disaster. From medical centres to schools, GEM works closely with community stakeholders and officials to determine the most important rebuilding projects to undertake. Projects are selected based on a large array of markers, including safety and sustainability. These projects are done to bring back normalcy after a crisis, and also to encourage and enhance future resilience.
Window Replacements
In war-torn regions, we have implemented our window program to help combat potential refugee crises. When a building is hit with a missile or similar, the impact and shock can blow out the surrounding windows of other close structures. In the cold winter months this is even more devastating as families cannot stay in their homes without protection from the elements. GEM works with local window manufacturers to quickly and successfully replace damaged windows and give families the ability to stay in their homes and regain this protection.
Farm to Frontline
Made possible by The Howard Buffett Foundation, this program empowers local Ukrainian farmers and businesses by sourcing 100% of the food in our Family Necessity Kits directly from them. Amidst ongoing conflict, many of these farms were operating well below capacity, putting livelihoods at risk. By reinvesting in these communities, this program plays a vital role in revitalizing agricultural production inside Ukraine, while also supporting the local economy. The farmers are proud to participate in this program, as well, knowing their efforts directly support their frontline neighbours who rely on these boxes.
Seed Packs
Empowerment is the primary goal of GEM’s work, and empowering those to sustain and support their families and communities embodies exactly this. We work all through Ukraine & it’s active front lines delivering a variety of different seeds to local farmers and landowners. This program has allowed for people to have access to fresh produce that they may not have been able to because of the active crisis. It also allows for people to gain income through selling the produce, therefore supporting themselves even further.
Tool Replacement
Our tool program provides brand new tools for trades workers who have lost their equipment after a disaster. Natural disasters cause significant destruction, and empowering trades workers allows for community rebuilding efforts to begin quicker. This initiative has been extremely successful as it not only stimulates the recovery of the region, but brings tangible support and income back to business owners.
Tuition Grants
Education is a powerful tool that encourages and allows for better employment opportunities, increased self-confidence, and an overall betterment of a community. GEM is proud to support education in Haiti, and has done so for many years. We work closely with local educators and facilities to finance children’s learning, from early childhood to university. The benefits of this program reach far beyond each student; throughout Haiti we can see the goals and dreams of each learner coming to life and creating opportunity.
Generator Distributions
After every disaster, we see first-hand the hindrance of recovery due to the loss of electricity. The loss of power affects communication with essential services, the ability to feel safe and comfortable in your home, increased vulnerability, disruption of critical services, and more. GEM works with home and business owners, and government officials to deliver generators after disasters to help residents receive access to power, therefore allowing the recovery period to be more feasible.
Active Programs
Below are our active programs that are presently taking applications. The application process looks different for every activation; please email [email protected] for information on how to be considered for an active program.
LA Wildfires
Rental Assistance Program
Applications temporarily paused
In response to both the Eaton Fire & the Pacific Palisades wildfires, GEM has activated it’s rental assistance program.
LA Wildfires
Small Business Grant Program
Applications temporarily paused
In response to both the Eaton Fire & the Pacific Palisades wildfires, GEM has activated it’s small business grant program.
Hurricane Helene
WNC Rental Assistance Program
Inquires only available through August 1st
In response to Hurricane Helene, GEM has activated it’s rental assistance program.
Hurricane Helene
WNC Small Business Grant Program
Inquires only available through August 1st
In response to Hurricane Helene, GEM has activated it’s small business grant assistance program.
