Winter-2022

Executive Director Staci Alziebler-Perkins at Gathering for Women’s downtown Monte- rey day center, which provides a warm safe place for women experiencing homelessness. A t Gathering for Women’s down- town Monterey day center, Monterey Peninsula women experiencing homelessness drop by for a range of services. Clients might layer warm sweaters, leggings, t-shirts or scarves at the nonprofit’s clothes closet. Some talk with case workers and explore local housing resources. Others simply stop by for a hot meal or hot shower. “We’re a sanctuary where women can get off the streets or out of their cars and feel safe,” says Staci Alziebler-Perkins, Gathering for Women’s executive director. The organization serves about 400 women a year, including individuals who have faced health problems, domestic violence or the loss of a spouse. A small percentage have experienced mental illness or addiction. Alziebler-Perkins estimates that 90% of the center’s guests are from the Monterey Peninsula, and about 50% are over age 50. “This could be your mother or your grand- mother,” she says. “People who are homeless are just like you and I, and for whatever reason, they’re going through a bad experience. They deserve respect.” To volunteer or to donate, visit www.gather- ingforwomen.org . The organization accepts new and gently used clothing donations on the first and third Tuesdays of each month, from 1:30 to 3PM. Please email info@gatheringforwomen.org to confirm your donation list and appointment time. Monterey Nonprofit Suppor ts Women Who Need a Helping Hand B Y R ENE E B R I NCK S SHORT CUTS GIVING BACK 82 C A R M E L M A G A Z I N E • W I N T E R 2 0 2 2 Photo: Kelli Uldall