Creating a world in which families & children have access to resources that enrich their lives.

 
 
Group of diverse children smiling

About Us


The JEM Foundation is a tax-exempt 501(c)(3) non-profit organization serving families with infants and elementary school-aged children. We offer food, need-based assistance, nutrition/reading literacy programs, and community events in Greater Houston, Richmond/Rosenberg, Texas.

Welcome to our journey

We started the JEM Foundation to honor our beloved angel baby, John Evan Lashley. After the devastating loss of our son in 2015, we decided to share the abundance of love in our hearts with families and children in our community. We made it our mission to love every child as if they were our own little JEM.

Our faith in God helped us persevere through a difficult time and inspired us to be the light for others experiencing hardship and heartache. We believe all families and children deserve to live fulfilled lives, which is why we developed education and outreach programs that empower and uplift the communities we serve.

Of course, none of this would be possible without our faith and the JEM family - a devoted group of passionate volunteers.

As we continue to grow, we invite you to join us on our purpose-driven journey!

Our Founders, Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Kiesha Lashley, MBA. & Outreach Program Director Jarrod Lashley

Our Programs

Our programs are designed to assist and educate underserved communities by offering free digital resources, community events, and food and need-based assistance. Our community events are fun and family-friendly, and create opportunities to engage with local communities through purposeful play. Explore our programs to discover a world of new possibilities!

 

Outreach

A need-based program offering families with children free food assistance, personal care items, and basic necessities.

Nutrition

A program getting kids to eat their fruits and veggies by making mealtime healthy and fun. Working with parents to shop smart.

Reading Literacy

A program helping kids explore new words and ideas through reading and family-friendly activities.

Get Involved

Support JEM Foundation and families in need by donating today

Make a difference

JEM Foundation relies on grants and in-kind and charitable donations to serve local communities in Greater Houston, Richmond/Rosenberg, Texas.

Without assistance from donors like you, we cannot provide families in need and children with resources to help them through tough times.

Consider making a donation today to help a family in need.

Donate
 
A child and an adults hand coming together

Lend a helping hand

Our programs and events would not be possible without the help of dedicated volunteers, business partners and donors. They assist with everything from funding, event planning and outreach to sponsorships and networking events. Learn more about how you can get involved and lend the JEM Foundation a helping hand.

The JEM Experience

“JEM foundation spread some holiday cheer with a generous donation of socks and toiletries for the residents at Abigail‘s place! We had a chance to meet the JEM founders, Kiesha and Jarrod Lashley, and chit-chatted about their mission-driven work.”

— Director, Abigail’s Place

“Thank you so much for your donation. I know the clients will appreciate your generosity and thinking of them.”

— Volunteer, Fort Bend Women’s Center

“JEM represents a future with inclusivity and diversity; no matter who you are or your socioeconomic background, JEM creates opportunities to develop the youth and communities in need.”

— Volunteer, Ms. Chaleeza Y. Carter

“You have hearts of gold and doing beautiful work to honor John.”

— Stepfanie McCaffrey, Founder & Creative Director, The SM Collective