Empowering Communities
Together, we can turn trauma into strength. Jacob Merlin Foundation empowers our community to heal, find hope, and thrive.
About JM Foundation
Our Mission
Our Mission
Our Mission
At Jacob Merlin Foundation, we strive to improve the lives of system-impacted communities by providing them with education, food, and tools to thrive. We aim to break the cycle of systemic barriers and generational trauma to give these survivors a chance at a better future. Together, these services foster stability, resilience, and empowerment — guiding each person toward healing and self-sufficiency to Thrive, not just Survive.
Our History
Our Mission
Our Mission
Jacob Merlin Foundation was born out of a vision to create hope where trauma once left silence. Founded in Merced County, California, in 2023, the organization began as a small, community‑driven effort to support individuals and families navigating the effects of trauma, loss, and adversity.
Named in honor of Jacob, whose life symbolized compassion, resilience, and healing, the foundation was established to extend those same values to others. What started as a simple mission: to provide a safe space for those in pain, has grown into a trusted local resource serving the Central Valley, impact in their lives.
Programs
Our Mission
Programs
Through our Survivor Support Network, we teach practical skills for independent living and connect individuals to valuable community resources across Merced and Stanislaus Counties.
Our Emotional Support services offer one-on-one and group sessions that provide compassionate listening, healthy coping tools, and guidance in discovering positive social roles.
We also provide Social Service Coordination, helping participants access essential programs such as SNAP, Medi-Cal, emergency housing, and other federal and state resources.
Our Donors
Images of Impact: A Visual Journey of JMF's Outreach
