What does the name “Gemma” mean?
Gemma is a botanical term meaning a bud ready to grow independently. It was chosen by imprisoned women who identify with the image of blossoming into a new life path.
Who does Gemma serve?
Gemma serves women who are 18 years and older who are or have been incarcerated in Santa Cruz County. Participants MUST have been incarcerated in Santa Cruz County at some point to be eligible for Gemma services.
When was Gemma started?
Gemma was started in 2003 by women in the Blaine Street jail who worked with a group of committed local supporters and community members.
Is Gemma a nonprofit?
Yes, Gemma is Program of the Community Action Board of Santa Cruz County, Inc., a nonprofit 501(c)3.
What is the Community Action Board (CAB)?
The Community Action Board is a nonprofit organization that coordinates community programs to combat poverty and the causes of poverty in Santa Cruz and Monterey Counties.
Who is eligible for the Gemma Transitional House?
Any woman who lives in Santa Cruz County who has experienced the revolving door of incarceration and who is homeless and/or at risk of becoming homeless. The ideal candidate for the Gemma House is a woman who is committed to making a transformational change in her life.
Can someone receive services from Gemma if they aren’t in jail?
Yes. All aspects of the Gemma Program are avaialable to women who are not in custody.
Yes. Gemma can provide support to family members of women participating in the Gemma Transitional House or the Continuing Care Program through family therapy.
How long can someone live in the Gemma Transitional House?
Women can live in the Gemma Transitional House for up to 18 months.
How much does it cost to participate in the Gemma Program?
It does not cost anything to enroll in any part of the Gemma Program. The Day Program and the Continuing Care Program are FREE. Residents of the Gemma Transitional House are required to contribute 60% of their income toward the Gemma program. 30% goes to rent and 30% is held in an incentive account. Upon successful completion of the program, Gemma will use the incentive account money to help women transition to living independently. No one will be turned away for lack of funds.
Are formerly incarcerated women involved in the planning and operation of Gemma?
Yes, currently and formerly incarcerated women have been involved at every stage of development, operation and improvement of Gemma. A key aspect of the Gemma design is modeling and mentoring for other Gemma particpants.
Can women with children live in the Gemma Transitional House?
No. We chose to limit the house to adults only based on feedback from women in jail about the need to become stable before parenting fulltime. Gemma fully supports family reunification and provides family therapy to any Gemma residents who are interested.
What kinds of classes are offered in the Gemma Day Program?
The foundation of our program is a cognitive behavioral curriculum called Seeking Safety that addresses the connection between trauma and addictive behaviors. Please click on the Day Program link for more detailed information.
What is the Continuing Care Program?
The Continuing Care Program is a support program for formerly incarcerated women who would like support, structure and guidance in remaining sober, out of jail, and successfully engaged in the community. Continuing Care provides individual and group therapy, case management and connection to resources.
Who are the instructors for the Gemma Day Program?
The Gemma Day Program instructors are predominately skilled community volunteers who teach in their area of professional expertise.
Is there a Gemma program for men?
YES! A modified version of the Gemma Day Program will begin in Spring 2012 for men incarcerated in the medium security facility in Santa Cruz.
What is Gemma’s approach to substance abuse treatment and recovery?
Gemma uses the most recent research and evidence based models of effective treatment and recovery from addictive behaviors including codependency. The foundation of our approach is the Cognitive Behavioral program Seeking Safety which addresses the link between trauma and addictive behaviors.
Are women on parole eligible for Gemma?
Gemma can work with women who are on parole if they have been incarcerated in the Santa Cruz County jail system.
Are pets allowed at the Gemma Transitional House?
No.
Is smoking allowed at the Gemma Transitional House?
Smoking cessation resources will be provided and cessation encouraged, however there is a designated outdoor area at the house in which to smoke.
Are residents required to get a job or attend school?
Yes, each resident, along with staff support will create a plan that includes securing a consistent income that can support her stable and safe transition back into the community.
How Is Gemma funded?
Gemma is funded through a combination of local funds, public and private foundation grants, individual donors and through fundraising events.
When are Gemma’s Fundraising events?
Gemma holds our Annual Fall Fundraiser every year in October and participates in the Human Race each May. If you would like to participate or contribute to either event, please contact Gemma.
Is Gemma Successful?
YES! The statistics that Gemma has collected since we opened our doors in 2007 show consistently positve results. This includes reduction in arrests, probation violations and involvement with the courts. It also includes increases in sobriety, sustained employment, completion of education goals, payment of debt and restitution, connection with the community in the form of volunteerism, and improvements in physical and behavioral health as well as relationships with family.
