Capitol Hill Group Ministry isn’t just a place where those in need can go to get help. CHGM is a series of networks that unites people and organizations to work toward common goals – strengthening individuals, strengthening families.

Like a Rock
Capitol Hill has benefited from CHGM’s service for 38 years. As a nonprofit, CHGM has survived by the gracious help from the community, as well as by intelligent design. CHGM does not bear the financial burden alone but networks with other area sources of community assistance. The Reverend Emily Guthrie (who goes by Emily), executive director of CHGM, enthused, “As Capitol Hill Group Ministry approaches its 40th year of service, we are grateful for the support of so many partners in the community – individuals, congregations, local government and foundations.” Programs dependent upon this support include:

• The Congregation-Based Shelter Project, an emergency shelter, providing 10 families every night with dinner and breakfast, case management services and a safe place to sleep;
• The Family Resource Center, a one-stop-shop for families needing support or intervention;
• Mission Possible, an after-school opportunity for the children of Potomac Gardens to receive tutoring, a warm evening meal and a chance to broaden cultural horizons;
• The CHGM Social Service Office, facilitating dialogue and fostering learning and beneficial relationships among those who need help;
• And Shirley’s Place, a daytime home-base for families and children, where families can use the computers for job searches and homework, and babies can nap.

“We offer skilled assistance to homeless and at-risk families and individuals primarily in Ward 6,” Guthrie said. “Every situation is unique, but many come to us with affordable housing as their pressing need. CHGM is there for District residents who are among the growing number of neighbors who live in poverty – the working poor, those on a fixed income, those who are struggling through crisis.”

Some day-to-day ways that CHGM affects peoples’ lives? “With us, a senior gets his gas turned back on, a family without food at the end of the month feeds their children, a homeless family finds refuge and the tools to live independently, a parent moves step by step through her plan to help her family out of crisis, a child improves their performance in school,” said Guthrie.

Happier Holidays
“One unique aspect of CHGM is reflected in our Interfaith Service of Thanksgiving,” Guthrie explained. “The power of a coalition of faith communities and caring neighbors who affirm the need to address the needs of the poor and to bring about a more just and equitable community for all. At the Interfaith Thanksgiving Service of 2006, four faiths and 15 congregations gathered to honor exceptional volunteers and provided over 200 Thanksgiving meals. With food donated by Moms on the Hill (MOTH), area families and seniors received CHGM Thanksgiving baskets filled with apples, yams, onions, stuffing, and Safeway meat vouchers.

Many Ways to Help
CHGM happily receives volunteers for tutoring, mentoring and teaching life skills. Workshops may include parenting skills, yoga, nutrition and computer skills. CHGM offers Furniture for Friends (FOF), a service whereby donated essentials such as a kitchen table and a bed are delivered to those who are setting up a home. FOF needs furniture and strong backs to pick up and deliver. Basic grooming supplies such as toothpaste, deodorant, and razors, as well as baby supplies are always welcome. Also appreciated are haircut gift certificates and Metro passes, which aid in preparation for and getting to job interviews. “One thing we always need – gift cards for Safeway, Target, Giant,” said Guthrie, “they are so incredibly useful for the hungry, or for a family just moving into an apartment. This holiday season, help us be there to encourage and empower your vulnerable neighbors to change their lives with your financial gift of any size.  It truly will make a difference in the lives of our neighbors.”

CHGM operates out of several locations on the Hill but are headquartered at Capitol Hill United Methodist Church, 421 Seward Square SE. Contact CHGM at 202-544-0631 or info@chgm.net.