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Grant Enables Gainesville Action Ministries to Lend a Helping Hand

The stories are heartbreaking: a single mother, laid off through no fault of her own, is behind on the rent; a diabetic does not have enough money to purchase his medication; an unemployed father of four cannot pay the utility bill and the power is shut off.

Fortunately, families on the brink of homelessness can turn to Gainesville Action Ministries (GAM) for help. In 2009, GAM answered 2,051 calls for assistance and served 145 families comprised of 425 individuals.

“The main thing we do is provide financial assistance in the form of rent or utilities to prevent homelessness,” said program director Steve Napier. GAM works in partnership with churches and agencies throughout Hall County. As a result, case managers will refer individuals in need of additional services to a network of local resources.

The spiritual component sets GAM apart from other agencies providing similar services. “We are doing this from a Christian perspective by trying to be the church for these individuals,” Napier said. “We stay in contact with them, pray for them, and help them navigate through this situation.”

In 2009, the Georgia United Methodist Foundation provided a $5,000 grant to undergird GAM’s services. “This grant, which has made a significant impact in our agency’s ability to continue in ministry, came at a time when there was an increase in demand and a decrease in the amount of revenue,” Napier said. “We are grateful for the Foundation’s financial assistance and willingness to be in partnership with us to help prevent homelessness.”