Partnership between Melanated Pearl Corporation and the Clayton County Public Schools Homeless Education Department to launch and implement Project PRESENT
NEW PROGRAM ANNOUNCEMENT
We are excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership between Melanated Pearl Corporation and the Clayton County Public Schools Homeless Education Department to launch and implement Project PRESENT. This initiative is designed to support unhoused families with school-aged children who have a source of income.
Project PRESENT is a 30 day program that specifically targets families who qualify under the McKinney-Vento Act and are willing to engage in a structured case management plan. Participants in this program will be required to actively engage in saving strategies and life skills training sessions conducted via Zoom. It is important to note that consistent participation is vital; failure to meet weekly goals may result in dismissal from the program.
We are excited to announce a groundbreaking partnership between Melanated Pearl Corporation and the Clayton County Public Schools Homeless Education Department to launch and implement Project PRESENT. This initiative is designed to support unhoused families with school-aged children who have a source of income.
Project PRESENT is a 30 day program that specifically targets families who qualify under the McKinney-Vento Act and are willing to engage in a structured case management plan. Participants in this program will be required to actively engage in saving strategies and life skills training sessions conducted via Zoom. It is important to note that consistent participation is vital; failure to meet weekly goals may result in dismissal from the program.
This initiative seeks to assist families who aspire to transition into permanent housing but face challenges due to the high costs of hotel stays. As part of the program, families will be accommodated at the Extended Stay America in Morrow, located off Mount Zion.
We invite families who meet these criteria and are eager to take the next step towards stable housing to apply for Project PRESENT. Together, we can create sustainable pathways to housing stability and improve the lives of our community’s children and families.
Find the link to apply here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScM8shzq1jHmm1vy63MZCR7lfnJUYHFfZOsfSkXevhiKwd8iw/viewform
Please note that we are only able to work with families with children currently enrolled in Clayton County Public Schools.
We invite families who meet these criteria and are eager to take the next step towards stable housing to apply for Project PRESENT. Together, we can create sustainable pathways to housing stability and improve the lives of our community’s children and families.
Find the link to apply here: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScM8shzq1jHmm1vy63MZCR7lfnJUYHFfZOsfSkXevhiKwd8iw/viewform
Please note that we are only able to work with families with children currently enrolled in Clayton County Public Schools.
Clothing Closet - Open plus Online Request Form
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Exciting News from Melanated Pearl Corporation!
As we kick off Fiscal Year 7, we are thrilled to announce revamped access to our mobile pop-up clothing shop! To better serve our community, we’ve introduced an online request form for our clothing closet. Now, those in need of seasonal clothing can easily submit their requests online, and one of our dedicated team members will follow up to schedule a convenient pick-up. Please Share: Link: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSfw0G6KmYEuS9JSxgylW2xXEfzzRNq42b2EGxMViK_QijrKKg/viewform We believe that everyone deserves access to quality clothing, and this new system helps us make that happen more efficiently. Thank you for your continued support as we work together to uplift our community! #MelanatedPearl #CommunitySupport #ClothingCloset #Empowerment #FiscalYear7 |
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Empower Showers: Refreshing Lives, One Shower at a Time!
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Are You or Someone You Know in Need of a Shower?
Melanated Pearl is proud to present Empower Showers, a mobile service dedicated to providing access to clean water and hygiene for our unhoused community members. Our Services Include:
We are actively seeking partnerships with city officials, churches, community centers, and anyone with access to water sources to expand our reach and enhance our services. Let's work together to empower our community! |
Melanated PEARL Inc seeks funding for 2024-2025: Project Present: PEARL Path to Attendance, addressing the pressing issue of chronic absenteeism among students experiencing homelessness in our community.
Donate Now
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In 2025, Melanated PEARL Inc can better serve the vulnerable population in Clayton County by consolidating existing initiatives and restructuring services to expand our Human Services to include an Education Innovation and Improvement strategy: Project PRESENT: A PEARL Path to Attendance. This restructuring aims to provide a more comprehensive and holistic support system to help students and families transition from housing instability, prevent child abuse, and address chronic absenteeism as they move towards self-sufficiency. With the support of the Board, Melanated PEARL Inc can pivot to providing an elevated level of critical services to families and work towards implementing a community where everyone has the opportunity to thrive.
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Our students face numerous challenges, including a lack of stable housing, limited access to resources, and a higher risk of chronic absenteeism.
According to GADOE, approximately 23% of students in the state were chronically absent from school last year, defined as missing 10% or more of school days, regardless of whether the absences were excused or unexcused. Research conducted by GADOE indicates that missing more than five days of school per year can negatively impact student academic performance. Chronic absenteeism can be predictive of high school dropout rates. High school dropout has been linked to poor labor market prospects, diminished health, and increased involvement in the criminal justice system. |
Melanated PEARL Inc. proposes the implementation of a comprehensive program entitled Project Present: PEARL Path to Attendance to address chronic absenteeism among students experiencing homelessness. Our program targets families with students in grades K-12 who are unhoused and will offer emergency housing, uniforms, school supplies, and case management services to families transitioning out of homelessness. By providing these essential resources, we aim to create a supportive environment that promotes regular school attendance and academic success.
With your support, we can provide targeted housing assistance and support to up to 50 families with an estimated reach of impacted 200 to 300 students, helping them overcome barriers to regular school attendance and ensuring they have the necessary resources to succeed academically. 
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Melanated PEARL Inc partners with the Clayton County Library System to distribute Hygiene Kits to patrons in 2024
Hygiene Kits Distribution Program -Melanated Pearl Inc is a non-profit organization dedicated to supporting the well-being and dignity of vulnerable citizens in Clayton County. In Fiscal Year 6- October 2023-September 2024, our organization established a successful partnership with the Clayton County Library System to distribute hygiene kits to patrons and vulnerable citizens. Through this partnership, we distribute 60 kits (10 kits per month to each of the 6 libraries) in the county.
A hygiene kit is a collection of items dedicated to preventing the spread of germs. While hygiene kits are a useful item for everyone to have on-hand, they are often most needed in low-income communities and areas affected by disasters — where these essential cleaning items are far less readily available Expected Outcomes - Increased access to hygiene products for vulnerable citizens in Clayton County - Improved cleanliness and dignity for individuals in need - Enhanced awareness of support services available in the community |
Melanated Pearl Inc recognizes the importance of access to hygiene products for maintaining the dignity and cleanliness of vulnerable citizens. By removing the cost barrier associated with hygiene products and feminine hygiene items, we aim to support individuals in need and promote their overall well-being.
Our FY6 current program has been successful in providing essential hygiene kits to library patrons, and we now seek to expand our reach to additional public spaces in Clayton County in FY7.We are currently seeking funding via a wellness grant, Melanated Pearl Inc to expand our Hygiene Kits Distribution Program to include public spaces beyond the library system. These kits will include essential hygiene products and a resource information card to connect recipients with additional support services in the community. 
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE November 2023: Melanated Pearl Inc Announces Conclusion of FY 5 Rapid Rehousing Case Study
[Clayton County, GA , November 3,2023] - Melanated Pearl Inc, a small nonprofit organization dedicated to providing housing stability for women and families in need, sadly announces the end of the FY 5 Rapid Rehousing Case Study 2023. Despite our best efforts, the program faced significant challenges that have led to its closure.
The primary goal of the FY 5 Rapid Rehousing Case Study 2023 was to assist women and families recently displaced, who had income, in establishing residency. However, it is with deep regret that we acknowledge the repeated failure of our selected participants to meet the contractual payments as agreed upon. This unfortunate situation has had a negative ripple effect on our partnership with the apartments and has severely impacted our ability to extend assistance to other families in need.
"We are truly heartbroken to make this announcement," said [Name], Founder and CEO of Melanated Pearl Inc. "The financial implications and the subsequent cancellation of program expansion have left us with no choice but to close the FY 5 Rapid Rehousing Case Study 2023."
The inability of our participants to maintain payments can be attributed to several factors, including low income, inflation, the rising cost of daycare, medical expenses, and food prices. Additionally, the variable increases in energy costs have further strained the financial resources of both the organization and the participants.
As a result, Melanated Pearl Inc is no longer able to provide the necessary financial support to sustain the program. The FY 5 Rapid Rehousing Case Study 2023 will officially close in March 2024, and all participating families will be transitioned out of the apartments or assisted in securing a lease agreement of their own.
Melanated Pearl Inc, despite this setback, remains committed to its mission of supporting families in need. We will continue to explore alternative solutions and seek partnerships to address the ongoing housing crisis in our community.
With five years of service, Melanated Pearl Inc has actively worked towards supporting families in establishing housing stability. However, it is with deep regret that we have discovered the financial challenges faced by our participants, making it increasingly difficult for them to maintain payments.
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About Melanated Pearl Inc:
Melanated Pearl Inc is a small nonprofit organization dedicated to providing housing stability for women and families in need. With a focus on empowering individuals and fostering community support, Melanated Pearl Inc has been serving the community for five years. Through various programs and initiatives, the organization strives to create a lasting impact and help families achieve self-sufficiency.
CASE Study - Rapid Rehousing
In an effort to maximize our impact we have suspended all programs (June-July 2023) to engage in strategic planning and restructuring our initiatives to support a new Rapid Housing approach. Rapid rehousing is a housing intervention strategy designed to quickly rehouse individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless. It provides short-term rental assistance, case management, and other supportive services to help people stabilize in housing and achieve long-term housing stability.
Title: A Case Study on Rapid Rehousing for Homeless Individuals (February 2023-Launch | March 2023-February 2024 Placement)
The Melanated Pearl Corporation offers the following case study in response to the need for a solution to families in Clayton County, GA and our request for funding to expand our Rapid Rehousing Program which includes Case Management, Unit Acquisition, and Rental Subsidies* to strategically and successfully increase resources to provide housing interventions for households experiencing homelessness.
Background : Homelessness in Clayton County, GA is increasing. According to the 2019 Point-in-Time Count conducted by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, there were 461 homeless individuals counted in Clayton County. It is important to note that this count may not include all homeless individuals as it is based on a one-night snapshot and some individuals may not have been counted. In 2023, we believe that number has increased 10 fold. Additionally, ongoing medical needs, depletion of unemployment benefits, or multiple evictions make securing permanent housing difficult. Our wraparound model will be designed to provide a holistic approach to addressing the complex needs of homeless individuals. Our approach recognizes that homelessness is often the result of a combination of factors, including poverty, mental illness, substance abuse, and lack of social support.
Homeless wraparound services refer to a comprehensive approach to providing support and services to individuals experiencing homelessness. The goal of wraparound services is to address the multiple needs of homeless individuals, including housing, employment, healthcare, education, and mental health services.
Case Study Timeline : February 2023-July 2023 (6 months)
NOTE* this was an FY 5|Program Adaptation | Housing Stability | Hotel to Home - After closing out ERAP 1 Emergency Assistance, the Melanated PEARL engaged in a 6 month participatory action research case study with (5 families). The purpose of the study was to gain the knowledge and experience to design a Rapid Housing Program. Rapid rehousing is a housing intervention strategy designed to quickly rehouse individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless.
As a result, Melanated PEARL partnered with Monterey Village Apartments to provide placement, move-in cost, supplemental rental assistance, case management, and other supportive services with the goal of helping our clients become stabilized in housing and achieve long-term housing stability. The knowledge and expertise learned will assist our organization to move (5 families) out of homelessness and into permanent housing as quickly as possible, while also addressing any underlying issues that may have contributed to their homelessness.
The ultimate goal is to provide subsidies and services in a housing unit that would not require relocation at the end of the program.
RRH CONSISTS OF 3 KEY SERVICE AREAS:
While a rapid re-housing program must have all three core components available, it is not required that a single entity provide all three services nor that a household utilize all of them.
Program Eligibility: For a household to qualify for assistance, an initial assessment of the household’s need for housing placement or financial assistance takes place. The assessment process serves two purposes: (1) establishing a trusting relationship with the person(s) seeking help and (2) determining a fit for the best program. Assessment is only possible when the family or individual is an active participant, helping to make decisions about the types of services needed, working toward a desired outcome, and applying the determination to be successful.
Case Study Findings To Date:For the purpose of this case study, we will focus on a particular individual, James (name changed for privacy), who experienced chronic homelessness in Clayton County, GA.
Client Profile: : James, a 21 plus-year-old single male, had been homeless for 2 years after experiencing a loss of income due to COVID19 and being unable to qualify for safe affordable housing. He had invested over $80,000.00 in hotel costs when I met him in December 2022. James had previously attempted to access traditional homeless shelters, but due to safety concerns and unsuitable living conditions, he found it difficult to follow through with the associated requirements.
The core components of our rapid re-housing program are below.
Results and Conclusion - July 2023: Within six months of entering the Rapid Rehousing program, James has achieved housing stability and maintains steady employment, however he continues to struggle to pay the market rate. It’s important to note that James experienced a loss in hours due to various reasons including his employer reducing the availability of overtime, he experienced a car accident caused by another driver, and he experienced the loss of a parent during his placement. Our holistic and personalized approach of Rapid Rehousing has helped James overcome some of the challenges that have perpetuated his homelessness, but without a higher salary or additional income he will continue to struggle to make monthly rental payments.
Timeline | Updates | Cost
- The goal of rapid rehousing is to move people out of homelessness and into permanent housing as quickly as possible, while also addressing any underlying issues that may have contributed to their homelessness.
Title: A Case Study on Rapid Rehousing for Homeless Individuals (February 2023-Launch | March 2023-February 2024 Placement)
The Melanated Pearl Corporation offers the following case study in response to the need for a solution to families in Clayton County, GA and our request for funding to expand our Rapid Rehousing Program which includes Case Management, Unit Acquisition, and Rental Subsidies* to strategically and successfully increase resources to provide housing interventions for households experiencing homelessness.
Background : Homelessness in Clayton County, GA is increasing. According to the 2019 Point-in-Time Count conducted by the Georgia Department of Community Affairs, there were 461 homeless individuals counted in Clayton County. It is important to note that this count may not include all homeless individuals as it is based on a one-night snapshot and some individuals may not have been counted. In 2023, we believe that number has increased 10 fold. Additionally, ongoing medical needs, depletion of unemployment benefits, or multiple evictions make securing permanent housing difficult. Our wraparound model will be designed to provide a holistic approach to addressing the complex needs of homeless individuals. Our approach recognizes that homelessness is often the result of a combination of factors, including poverty, mental illness, substance abuse, and lack of social support.
Homeless wraparound services refer to a comprehensive approach to providing support and services to individuals experiencing homelessness. The goal of wraparound services is to address the multiple needs of homeless individuals, including housing, employment, healthcare, education, and mental health services.
- Wraparound services are provided by a team of professionals who work together to develop a customized plan for each individual. The team may include case managers, social workers, mental health professionals, employment specialists, and housing specialists.
- Wraparound services typically begin with an assessment of the individual's needs and strengths. The team then works with the individual to develop a plan that addresses their specific needs and goals. The plan may include access to housing, healthcare, employment training, and other services.
- Wraparound services are typically provided over a period of time, with the goal of helping individuals achieve long-term stability and independence. The services may also include ongoing support to help individuals maintain their housing and continue to access the services they need.
Case Study Timeline : February 2023-July 2023 (6 months)
NOTE* this was an FY 5|Program Adaptation | Housing Stability | Hotel to Home - After closing out ERAP 1 Emergency Assistance, the Melanated PEARL engaged in a 6 month participatory action research case study with (5 families). The purpose of the study was to gain the knowledge and experience to design a Rapid Housing Program. Rapid rehousing is a housing intervention strategy designed to quickly rehouse individuals and families who are experiencing homelessness or at risk of becoming homeless.
As a result, Melanated PEARL partnered with Monterey Village Apartments to provide placement, move-in cost, supplemental rental assistance, case management, and other supportive services with the goal of helping our clients become stabilized in housing and achieve long-term housing stability. The knowledge and expertise learned will assist our organization to move (5 families) out of homelessness and into permanent housing as quickly as possible, while also addressing any underlying issues that may have contributed to their homelessness.
The ultimate goal is to provide subsidies and services in a housing unit that would not require relocation at the end of the program.
RRH CONSISTS OF 3 KEY SERVICE AREAS:
- HOUSING IDENTIFICATION - Locating housing.
- RENT AND MOVE-IN ASSISTANCE (FINANCIAL) - Providing temporary financial assistance to help pay for that housing.
- RAPID RE-HOUSING CASE MANAGEMENT AND SERVICES - Providing wraparound services to support households in maintaining housing.
While a rapid re-housing program must have all three core components available, it is not required that a single entity provide all three services nor that a household utilize all of them.
Program Eligibility: For a household to qualify for assistance, an initial assessment of the household’s need for housing placement or financial assistance takes place. The assessment process serves two purposes: (1) establishing a trusting relationship with the person(s) seeking help and (2) determining a fit for the best program. Assessment is only possible when the family or individual is an active participant, helping to make decisions about the types of services needed, working toward a desired outcome, and applying the determination to be successful.
Case Study Findings To Date:For the purpose of this case study, we will focus on a particular individual, James (name changed for privacy), who experienced chronic homelessness in Clayton County, GA.
Client Profile: : James, a 21 plus-year-old single male, had been homeless for 2 years after experiencing a loss of income due to COVID19 and being unable to qualify for safe affordable housing. He had invested over $80,000.00 in hotel costs when I met him in December 2022. James had previously attempted to access traditional homeless shelters, but due to safety concerns and unsuitable living conditions, he found it difficult to follow through with the associated requirements.
The core components of our rapid re-housing program are below.
- Rapid Rehousing Intervention:
- James was referred to us by the hotel manager and came highly recommended by his peers for our Rapid Rehousing program. It was noted that he was a great guest and a hard worker. In February, our Rapid Rehousing team (consisting of a case manager, housing locator, and peer support specialist) met with James, and our Outreach Coordinator was assigned to work closely with James.
- Upon assessment, James's case manager identified three priority areas: securing housing, accessing food and furniture, and obtaining higher paying employment. A comprehensive individualized action plan was developed, taking into consideration James's unique circumstances and preferences.
- Housing Placement:
- The housing locator assigned to James secured a two bedroom unit based on James’ needs. By March 1st, a suitable apartment was secured in a safe neighborhood that aligned with James's desired location. The apartment was not furnished, but Melanated Pearl covered the cost of the first month's rent, security deposit, and insurance fees greatly reducing the financial burden of moving in.
- Support Services:
- To address James's needs, the Rapid Rehousing team connected him with local community service agencies and shared local food banks. Monthly check-ins were scheduled to support his emotional well-being and develop effective payment strategies. Additionally, the team connected James with local Kobe fair dates and location in an effort to assist with finding higher paying work. The combination of resources are aimed to promote James's long-term stability and self-sufficiency.
- Ongoing Support:
- After successfully transitioning James into his new apartment, the Rapid Rehousing team continued to provide support and follow-up services to mitigate any potential barriers and or eviction. This included regular check-ins, ongoing case management, and assistance with financial resources, such as rental subsidies and utility assistance programs. The team also facilitated connections to community resources, such as support groups and educational workshops, to help James build a strong social network.
Results and Conclusion - July 2023: Within six months of entering the Rapid Rehousing program, James has achieved housing stability and maintains steady employment, however he continues to struggle to pay the market rate. It’s important to note that James experienced a loss in hours due to various reasons including his employer reducing the availability of overtime, he experienced a car accident caused by another driver, and he experienced the loss of a parent during his placement. Our holistic and personalized approach of Rapid Rehousing has helped James overcome some of the challenges that have perpetuated his homelessness, but without a higher salary or additional income he will continue to struggle to make monthly rental payments.
Timeline | Updates | Cost
- February- Identified Families | Housing Identification
- March - Inform selected families | Hosted a meeting with the property manager | Signed Leases | Paid Move-In Fees & First Month rent | Estimated cost $15,000.00 - average move-in cost $3,500.00-$6,000.00 per family.
- April - 1 family was replaced | 1 family needed a $275 subsidy | 3 families in compliance
- May - 1 family needed split payments | 4 families in compliance
- June - 2 families needed a supplemental total $1,084 includes late fees | 1 family needed spit payments | 1 family experienced the loss of a loved one | 1 family had a medical emergency causing a loss of income | 1 family needed split payments | 2 families in compliance
- July - submit 60 day notice for clients/apartments for families who are in violation of agreement | Conduct Home Visit | 5 families in compliance
- August -Extend program for 6 additional months for families in compliance | Summarize Case Study findings | Prepare for program expansion with OysterShell Cohort 2
Moving with Taste (collective partnership with CCPS)
The Melanated PEARL is proud to partner with Clayton County Public Schools to facilitate
"Moving With Taste": 1 Child, 1 Family at Time
Extended Stay: 2265 Mt. Zion Pkwy Morrow, GA 30260 Thursday, May 11, 2023. Set up time 2:00 pm; Distribution 5p-7p.
Efficiency Lodge 5013 Courtney Dr. Forest Park, GA 30297 Monday, May 22, 2023. Set up time 2:00 pm; Distribution 5p-7p.
"Moving With Taste": 1 Child, 1 Family at Time
- This work supports CCPS students and families in transition living in hotels events were held as follows:
Extended Stay: 2265 Mt. Zion Pkwy Morrow, GA 30260 Thursday, May 11, 2023. Set up time 2:00 pm; Distribution 5p-7p.
Efficiency Lodge 5013 Courtney Dr. Forest Park, GA 30297 Monday, May 22, 2023. Set up time 2:00 pm; Distribution 5p-7p.
Wraparound Services & Mobile Mondays 2023
Mobile Monday is in full effect!
#WrapAroundCare
Wrap-around service delivery is a team-based, collaborative case management approach. A case management approach represents a point-of-delivery, rather than a system-level, approach to coordination. The concept of Wrap-around programming is used to describe any program that is flexible, family or person-oriented and comprehensive – that is, a number of organizations work together to provide a holistic program of supports.
Special Thanks to the Rotary Club Of Lake Spivey/Clayton County for donating blankets & wellness kits! #HousingStability #wraparoundservices #melanatedpearlcorp
#WrapAroundCare
Wrap-around service delivery is a team-based, collaborative case management approach. A case management approach represents a point-of-delivery, rather than a system-level, approach to coordination. The concept of Wrap-around programming is used to describe any program that is flexible, family or person-oriented and comprehensive – that is, a number of organizations work together to provide a holistic program of supports.
Special Thanks to the Rotary Club Of Lake Spivey/Clayton County for donating blankets & wellness kits! #HousingStability #wraparoundservices #melanatedpearlcorp
Join our efforts! Volunteer to serve those who identify as homeless | unhoused | displaced
You have the opportunity to work alongside other volunteers dedicated to making an impact on the lives of children, families and communities across Clayton County, GA . When you help provide resources (food, clothing, shelter, encouragement) for those in need, you’re helping restore dignity, confidence, and opportunity. At MelanatedPearl.org our mission is to educate, uplift, and empower.
You have the opportunity to work alongside other volunteers dedicated to making an impact on the lives of children, families and communities across Clayton County, GA . When you help provide resources (food, clothing, shelter, encouragement) for those in need, you’re helping restore dignity, confidence, and opportunity. At MelanatedPearl.org our mission is to educate, uplift, and empower.
FY5 MelanatedPEARL.org is selected by Clayton County, GA to distribute ERAP Funding.
Tenants must provide:
Landlords must provide:
- Valid Photo ID for applicant
- Contact information including your email address and phone number
- Proof of income (Paystubs, 2020 taxes, W2 or signed declaration)
- Copy of the Lease Agreement OR written attestation from a Verifiable Landlord or Management
- Eviction notice, late notice or dispossessory (if applicable)
- Past due water/sewer, gas, electric, or internet utility notice(s)
- Documentation of unemployment or loss of income since March 2020
- Documentation of any previous rental assistance received since March 13, 2020
- Any other documentation that indicates risk of homelessness
Landlords must provide:
- Valid W-9 payment to the owner of the rental property
- Rent Ledger & Lease Agreement
- SSN or Tax ID Number for the landlord or rental property owner/company
- Contact information including your email address and phone number
- Any late or rental arrears submitted for consideration are for Clayton County properties only
- If tenant(s) receives a rental subsidy and the subsidy amount
Crystal Perry | Founder of Melanated PEARL.org
“I am NOT a medical professional, but I care for a loved one with diabetes” |
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The HEARTwork Better Health DIABETES Initiative was created based on my need as a wife to create a customized plan of care for my husband of 20 plus years who is living with Type 1 Diabetes.
In addition to my husband, I have several family members, friends, and community leaders that are currently managing Type 2 Diabetes and consistently reach out for help, guidance, and assistance. While advances in healthcare are helping many live healthier lives than ever before, research also points to an increase in chronic conditions and diseases such as cancer, arthritis and diabetes and across Georgia people living with diabetes are experiencing barriers to accessing quality healthcare. At MelanatedPEARL.org, we’re on a mission to educate, uplift, and empower by focusing on the impact of diabetes in our community. |
MelanatedPEARL.org | Impact Report
The Mother of P.E.A.R.L. Housing Initiative and Eviction Prevention Program (est. October 2020)
In FY3, Melanated Pearl Corporation assisted 36 families secure housing (by contributing over $50,000 in financial assistance) through the Mother of PEARL Transitional Housing and Eviction Prevention Program, we served hundreds of students and families during virtual learning and gift 75 families with Quarter One school supplies, we delivered and donated food and feminine hygiene to those in need as well as actively donating to local NGOs and participating in community events.
In FY4, we relaunched the Mother of Pearl Transitional Housing Program in November 2021, with a goal to assist up to 40 families as funds were available. Video: 2021-2022 - IMPACT Report
MelanatedPEARL.org will END this program by September 2022.
In FY3, Melanated Pearl Corporation assisted 36 families secure housing (by contributing over $50,000 in financial assistance) through the Mother of PEARL Transitional Housing and Eviction Prevention Program, we served hundreds of students and families during virtual learning and gift 75 families with Quarter One school supplies, we delivered and donated food and feminine hygiene to those in need as well as actively donating to local NGOs and participating in community events.
In FY4, we relaunched the Mother of Pearl Transitional Housing Program in November 2021, with a goal to assist up to 40 families as funds were available. Video: 2021-2022 - IMPACT Report
MelanatedPEARL.org will END this program by September 2022.
The OysterShell
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A Common Agenda …
With a common agenda, shared measurement system, and continuous communication among a cohort of grantees that provide direct services, the ultimate outcome of the OysterShell Initiative is to create large-scale community change. |
OysterShell CCCII〰️The OysterShell CCCII〰️The OysterShell CCCII〰️The OysterShell CCCII〰️The OysterShell CCCII〰️The OysterShell CCCI
Impact Initiative
The OysterShell Initiative will fund programs of nonprofits led by Black females throughout the southern metropolitan Atlanta area to address economic harms to workers, households, small businesses, industries, and the public sector impacted by the public health emergency. With its mission to empower, educate and uplift Black women, Melanated PEARL Corporation (hereafter referred to as “Melanated PEARL”), a nonprofit organization based in Clayton County, Georgia, will develop, implement, and monitor the OysterShell Initiative.
The goal of the OysterShell Initiative is to support Black female-led nonprofit organizations by giving them significant amounts of training and funding in order to collectively provide services to and improve the lives of economically vulnerable girls, women, and families in the southern metropolitan Atlanta area.
To be qualified for these grants, the organizations must serve their communities in such areas as education, health and well-being, housing, homelessness, financial literacy, and more. Additionally, these organizations must be located in Clayton and other South Metro Atlanta counties, or located within zip codes with a Child Wellbeing Index Score below 40. Developed by the United Way of Greater Atlanta, the score is based on factors such as education, health, economic hurdles, unemployment, and access to higher education and health insurance.
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Community Funding…
Melanated PEARL will support the distribution of 2 rounds of grants over two years to up to 40 nonprofit organizations. |
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Purposeful Partnerships
By working with an extensive network of partners, Melanated PEARL, via the proposed initiative, can achieve the greatest impact and amass a strong collection of programs and services to help the Southern Crescent’s nonprofit community in its recovery and growth. |
Mother of PEARL (Y2)
Transitional Housing & Eviction Prevention & Rental Assistance 2021-2022
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CLOSED FEBRUARY 1, 2022
Due to the total requests for assistance now exceeding all Mother of PEARL: Transitional Housing -Eviction Prevention & Rental Assistance Program funds available, the program has closed its application portal to new applications and additional funding requests. |
Our primary objective is to fill the gaps for those who are EMPLOYED, but who have lost income because of COVID-19. Approved Grantees/ Applicants (receiving payments) received an email notification with more information.
In November 2021, the Melanated Pearl Corporation launched its Year 2 - Mother of PEARL: Transitional Housing -Eviction Prevention & Rental Assistance Program to provide financial assistance to eligible households for the payment of rent, rent arrears, and security deposits.
As of January 21, 2022, the Mother of PEARL: Transitional Housing -Eviction Prevention & Rental Assistance Program has committed over 90% of its total funding available and due to the overwhelming need, know that not everyone who applied will get assistance.
We have received 80+ applications requesting over $140,000 in support.
The majority – approximately 90+ percent – of in-take applications have now been processed.
The remaining applications require additional review as part of the risk mitigation and cost containment safeguards.
Mother of PEARL Y1
Transitional Housing & Eviction Prevention 2020-2021
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Mother of PEARL Grantee smiles in front of PEARL van after paying her balance in FULL.
The Mother of P.E.A.R.L. Housing Initiative and Eviction Prevention Program: offers financial support to assist displaced women or families facing eviction secure safe and affordable housing. With the help of volunteers, Melanated PEARL Corporation works with women and families to provide financial assistance that will serve to bridge a short-term economic shortfall in rent, utility, and/or security deposit payments at no cost to the participants. Participants may be assisted with first and last month’s rent and security deposit. |
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Homeless Women Feminine Hygiene Drive 2021: May -August 2021
Save Our Jewels and Melanated Pearl are partnering to provide a total of 2,500 packs of plant-based and non-toxic Reign Premium Sanitary Napkins to the schools, homeless shelters, and church listed below by 8/31/21, and it will take us $25,500 to get there! 2021 Donation Recipients: Atlanta, GA 1. Slater Elementary School - 1320 Pryor Road 2. Thomasville Heights Elementary - 1820 Henry Thomas Drive 3. Price Middle School - 1670 Benjamin Weldon Bickers Drive 4. Carver STEAM Academy - 55 McDonough Blvd. 5. Hope Shelter - 170 Flint Road, Jonesboro, GA Buffalo, NY 1. Buffalo City Mission - 100 E. Tupper Street 2. Gerard Place - 2615 Bailey Avenue 3. Compass House - 1451 Main Street 4. True Bethel Baptist Church (Young Parents Campus) - 907 E. Ferry Street |
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Our Vision for Women
Secure Housing & Basic Needs: Ensure children and their families have the food, shelter, transportation and technology that are fundamental to achieving educational outcomes, healthy lives and reaching economic stability. Close the Skills Gap: Create easy access to job readiness programs, increase opportunities for hands-on work experience, and provide financial support to secure credentials in high demand careers for low-wage workers and opportunity youth. Build Wealth: Provide support so that families build financial literacy skills, improve credit scores, access financial products and attain assets that create economic mobility for themselves and the next generation. Manage Health: Provide access to health services so that individuals are better able to manage their health, work consistently and live independently. Professional P.E.A.R.L. Prep: In partnership with entrepreneurs and knowledge holders across Metro Atlanta, Melanated P.E.A.R.L. Corporation is committed to hosting the Professional P.E.A.R.L. Prep sessions focused on job and career readiness. This campaign creates a space for professional learning to share knowledge that helps fuel the growth of Black-owned and women-led businesses by focusing on the following: |
BLACK FRIDAY 2020BLACK FRIDAY community event on Friday, November 27th. CLICK THE LINK IN THE BIO. Guest Speaker Chief Operating Officer: Detrick Stanford Clayton County Administration Professional PEARL PREP Event Address: 5400 Jonesboro Rd, Lake City, GA 30260 Hours: 1:00-4:00PM This is a FREE event but Registration is Required. The goal is to help citizens get ready to go back to work. We plan to have 5-6 stations that focus on different aspects of employment readiness. #jobreadiness PPP Stations Professional Looks, Professional Headshots, Professional Profile (LinkedIn), Professional PREP -Mock Interview, Professional Finances, Professional Network |
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Economic Stability because economic stability is the foundation for economic mobility. Without it, women and children have little chance of moving out of poverty.Job readiness training support is taught by entrepreneurs with corporate training experience to prepare participants to get, keep and excel at a new job. Basic employability skills include effective communication, problem solving, resume building, and interviewing. Job readiness training programs also help participants develop good work habits that facilitate their ongoing success. Work readiness skills are a set of skills and behaviors that are necessary for any job. Work readiness skills are sometimes called soft skills, employability skills, or job readiness skills. These abilities help employees learn how to interact with supervisors and co-workers. Melanated PEARL Corporation partners with external organizations that may work directly with participants to help repair credit and establish savings so that participants will be better equipped to handle a financial crisis in the future with a financial literacy development program. |