What is “Homelessness Prevention?”

1,629 words, 9 minutes read time. Over the last few years there has been a push towards “homelessness prevention” as a solution to the ongoing homelessness crisis. GFW has even promoted homelessness prevention opportunities and asked for support in this area in the past. However, the concept of “homelessness prevention” can still appear quite nebulous; so, let’s take a moment to discuss what “homelessness prevention” is, how it’s implemented, and what kind of impact it really has.

Tell Me More: Do people really not want housing?

2,029 words, 11 minutes read time. As we celebrate GFW’s anniversary, we thought we would take some time to address a common myth surrounding our guests here at GFW. The women we serve every day are all very unique and they all defy the most common stereotypes out there. Celebrate GFW’s anniversary with us by dispelling this persistent myth and seeing the truth behind each guest’s story.

Helping Hands: Anjanette Love, Program Facilitator

798 words, 4 minutes read time. I am Anjanette Love the Program Facilitator at GFW. In my role, I make sure that the day-to-day services and activities are in place. I connect with community organizations to bring them in and present their services to our guests. I manage our Next Step Case Management team, and I also meet with our guests for Case Management sessions.

The 2026 Point-in-Time Count

1,484 words, 8 minutes read time. Happy New Year! A new year means new challenges, new opportunities, and new numbers. At the end of January 2026, the bi-annual Homeless Census or “Point-in-Time Count” will be performed, so let’s take a look at what it is, why it’s so important, and why we’ll be talking about it for years to come.

It’s Homelessness Awareness Month!

1,521 words, 8 minutes read time. November is a busy month here at GFW and not just because of all the activity surrounding our annual Thanksgiving meals! November is Homelessness Awareness Month, November 16-22 is National Hunger and Homelessness Awareness Week, and this month will kick off MC Gives for Monterey County. Let’s take a closer look at what November means for GFW and how you can get involved this year!

Art as Therapy

1,289 words, 7 minutes read time

Regular guests, volunteers, and visitors at GFW may have noticed an increase in our program activities centered around art. If you find yourself asking, “Why offer these art classes when they should be doing XYZ?” then this is the post for you. Let’s talk about the benefits of artistic expression, the differences that Art Therapy can make, and the impact it is having on GFW’s guests.

Tell Me More: Substance Use and Homelessness

1,537 words, 8 minutes read time.
We start this series with one of the most pervasive myths about people experiencing homelessness. We hope this post provides some much needed clarity on the subjects of substance use disorder (SUD) and addiction. If you or someone you love is struggling with a substance use disorder or addiction, you can call the National Helpline (USA) at 1-800-622-HELP (4357), or our local information desk at 211.