In 1993, the South Central Los Angeles Ministry Project (LAMP) was founded to provide support to families living in Los Angeles County, where it is reported that half of the country’s 60,000 gang members reside. The area surrounding LAMP’s office has a 15% unemployment rate and half of the households report yearly incomes below the poverty level.The Society of the Holy Child Jesus, in partnership with several other religious congregations, founded LAMP, which offers parent education and English language instruction, parent-and-child together classes, and family advocacy services. LAMP’s mission is to strengthen the entire family with education, tools, and strategies that help the parents become their child’s first and most important educator.

LAMP illuminates the path out of poverty by using the power of education to transform community, strengthen families, and prepare children to reach their potential for achievement in school and in life.

LAMP offers a shared learning environment for children and their parents, strengthening the family bond and preparing family members with the necessary tools to succeed.

Many of the women who seek solace and support from the South Central Los Angeles Ministry Project (LAMP) arrive at the center because their spirits are broken. They are lost among the City’s “invisible poor,” those who are emotionally and physically abused, socially isolated, lacking self esteem, uneducated and unable to speak the language. When they open their hearts and minds to LAMP, they open the door to opportunity and establish connections with those who care.

Dreams can become a reality at LAMP. The supportive, nurturing environment provides educational programs that empower women and their families to reach their full potential, build self-esteem, and strengthen mutual interdependent relations. The stories of women who have improved their parenting skills, learned to hold their heads up high, acquired new skills, and increased their connections with others are inspiring.