Trenett Smith has been working at Thrive DC as the women’s program coordinator and case manager for 6 years. She plans stress-free activities for the women, and provides them with a nutritious meal that may otherwise be out of reach.

The women’s dinner program gives vulnerable women and children a place to stay with a supportive community to help them get back on their feet. To learn more about the program click here.

Today we sat down with Trenett and women’s program clients to ask some questions:

What services are offered to the women during the program?

Trenett: We offer them a nutritious dinner, showers, toiletries, laundry, a computer lab, case management, referrals, and pantry bags. We’ll give them anything that they need.

What enrichment programs are offered to the women?

Trenett: Some enrichment programs that we have include knitting, arts and crafts, jewelry making, movie night, bingo, nutrition presentations, poetry readings, games, and yoga.

What does the women’s program need the most?

Trenett: Every three months we host a spa day for the women to relax and feel beautiful. Donation items like facial scrubs and nail polish are greatly appreciated for those events.

What is the most rewarding part of the women’s program?

Trenett: Just knowing that we are giving the women a safe place to be off the street for three hours is priceless. Seeing them smile with the enrichment programs is also extremely rewarding.

What does the women’s program mean to you?

“I would encourage all women to come to the program. It’s awesome. Thrive is a better way of life. There are so many activities here that help the women. The staff is wonderful, they make sure you have what you need, and they never take breaks. You can even bring your kids. It’s a place to stay during the day away from the streets with great people.” -Lashaurn (Client)

“I’ve been to the program three times and the laundry services are so helpful” - Trudy (Client)

“The women’s program is a way to stay busy with all sorts of activities. Just the other day we had nail painting.” -Anonymous (Client)

“Thrive DC is a place I could call my home. They help me put my life back together. Here I was able to find opportunities, free programs, clothing, and housing. Thank you for helping me when I needed help.” -Barbara, (Client)

Whether or not spring-cleaning season was successful for you this year, fall is around the corner, and it's the perfect time for round two (or one). It's time to put away the bathing suits and sunscreen and to dig up the cozy sweaters and garden rakes in preparation for the next few months. While you're at it, make a little extra space in your life by clearing out the things you don't need, donating the clothes you haven't worn in a year, and giving away items you don't even remember owning that might be of better use to somebody else. Before you even get started, take a look at this top 10 list of resources that folks need for fall that you might have to give away, just to give you some ideas.  Happy un-cluttering! (more…)