February EssexNEXT Contest Submission from: Karissa Ramirez, Assistant Community Manager

Hi E-team,

This past week I, Karissa Ramirez (ACM at Reveal), and Joanna Sanchez (CM at Reveal) had the pleasure of hosting a meal for the ladies at Gabriel’s House. We also donated household items such as toiletries and paper goods. The ladies at Gabriel’s House in Oxnard were extremely excited to see the dessert and Coca-Colas as their sweet tooth cravings is not something that gets to be fulfilled every day.

Gabriel's House is an emergency and longer-term housing for homeless women and children. The residential care and case management staff at Gabriel’s House assists vulnerable families through programs, volunteer efforts, and advocacy. The following services are offered at Gabriel’s House: Transitional Living- Providing Private and Furnished Rooms for family living, Full Case Management- Assists in job searches, budgeting and connection with services in the community that assists them in managing their lives, Spiritual mentor and life coaching to support and encourage them in their goals, and Life Skill Classes including childcare while attending classes.

Gabriel’s House is special to me because it is in my hometown where I was born and raised. Giving back to local women and children in my community was so rewarding for when you give you also receive.

Visit Gabriel’s House to learn more and click here if you would like to give back by providing or hosting a meal for this local organization.

“We make a living by what we get, but we make a life by what we give.” – Winston Churchill