Support Group

SUPPORT GROUP SERVICES

Psychological support

The support group meets the third Saturday of every month, January through November. We take a break in the month of December; however we still are on call in the event of an emergency during the month of December. We cover a different related topic each month. Occasionally, we have a guest speaker, but other months, we have an open discussion. There is a licensed psychologist available in the support group at all times, we provide both individual and group sessions.

Availability

January - November
Third Saturday of the Month

Location

VIRTUAL

Restorative surgery

GWPF sponsors at least two surgeries annually. We currently have a waiting list for the restorative surgery. The surgery restores what was removed during female genital mutilation and cutting. The support group member is responsible for her travel and lodging expenses for the surgery. GWPF will provide for the actual cost of the surgery. In order to qualify for the surgery with GWPF, we require consistent attendance and participation in the group.

Availability

January - November
Third Saturday of the Month

Location

VIRTUAL

Asylum references

We provide reference letters to the U.S. Asylum Office on behalf of the asylees in our support group. In order to be eligible for this reference from GWPF, we also require consistent attendance and participation in the support group.

Availability

January - November
Third Saturday of the Month

Location

VIRTUAL

Character references

We provide character references in the event of housing, job, and school applications. Again, to be eligible for such references, we require active and consistent participation in the support group.

Availability

January - November
Third Saturday of the Month

Location

VIRTUAL

Survivors retreat

GWPF hosts an in-person retreat for members of the support group in the spring during the month of April. The group meets virtually during the year, but we come together in person once a year to share stories and experiences. We also do exercises such as beading, painting, cooking, yoga, and hiking.

Availability

January - November
Third Saturday of the Month

Location

VIRTUAL

Adult educatioN

This support service is currently in the planning stage. This service is designed to take the survivor beyond life following FGM/C. This service will allow us to provide support for education in professional areas of interest for the survivor. If she wants to have a small business for herself or if she wants to pursue a degree or further her education. 

Availability

January - November
Third Saturday of the Month

Location

VIRTUAL