Outreach Focus for 2008 - 2009: Children’s Needs

GFUMC has chosen to partner with four local organizations in their efforts to help children through various programs and services. In addition to providing financial support, raising the visibility of these agencies and supporting their volunteer and supply needs are among our goals. Visit the websites of each agency to learn more about these quality programs. 

Boys and Girls Clubs
For more than 54 years, Boys and Girls Clubs has been serving young people in Hall County with character and leadership development, education and career development, health and life skills, arts, sports, and fitness. They impact more than 3,600 children each year. 88% of the children served come from economically disadvantaged circumstances.     
www.boysgirlsclubs.com

Gateway Domestic Violence Center – Children’s Program – “Breaking the Cycle” 
Children participating in the Children’s Program at Gateway have lived in a climate of fear. In addition to witnessing violence against their mother, over 50% of the children attending service programs at Gateway have been physically abused by the father/step-father themselves. Gateway’s Children’s Program offers twice-weekly, age appropriate group meetings that give the children an opportunity to share their fears and concerns and learn that violence is not the appropriate way to solve problems.   
www.gatewayhousega.com 

Good News Clinics
Good News Clinics offers support, free medical and dental care and medications to the underserved homeless, and low income people who do not have insurance and cannot afford medical care. There are approximately 100 patient visits by children each month in the medical and dental clinics combined.   
www.goodnewsclinics.org

L.A.M.P. Ministries
This community youth outreach program reaches out to teens and preteens who are homeless or at risk of homelessness or involved in or at risk for gang and other criminal activity. Many are involved with or at risk of substance use, premarital sex, and other risky behaviors. This Christian ministry shines the light of Christ’s love especially to young people who have not yet fit into the mainstream of our community. 
http://lampga.tripod.com