Troop 6000: Empowering Girls Experiencing Homelessness Through Scouting
New York City faces a persistent challenge with homelessness, impacting families and individuals across all five boroughs. Amidst this crisis, a unique initiative has emerged, offering a beacon of hope and opportunity for girls navigating the instability of shelter life. Troop 6000, the first Girl Scout troop exclusively for girls experiencing homelessness, is providing a safe space, fostering resilience, and building essential life skills. Founded in 2017 by Giselle Burgess, a community development specialist with the Girl Scouts of Greater New York, the troop has grown from a small gathering of seven girls in a Queens shelter to a city-wide movement reaching thousands.
Burgess’s own experience with homelessness, after her landlord sold her building, fueled her vision. Recognizing the require for a consistent and supportive activity for girls in similar situations, she leveraged her position within the Girl Scouts to create a program tailored to their unique needs. The troop’s success stems from its understanding that simply providing activities isn’t enough; it requires addressing the complex challenges these girls face, including trauma, instability, and the stress of navigating the shelter system. Approximately one-third of New Yorkers have experienced homelessness, highlighting the widespread need for support systems like Troop 6000.
Addressing Unique Challenges with Trauma-Informed Care
Working with girls experiencing homelessness requires a specialized approach. Troop 6000 partners with a team of social workers, led by Marissa Stranieri, director of social work services, who provide essential support and trauma-informed care. Stranieri and her team train troop leaders to understand the impact of homelessness on children and to create a safe and nurturing environment. This includes recognizing signs of trauma, practicing patience, and providing consistent routines. The focus is on building trust and empowering the girls to overcome adversity.
In 2023, Troop 6000 expanded its reach to include newly arrived immigrant families and asylum seekers, a population facing additional hurdles. These girls often arrive with limited English proficiency, disrupted schooling, and the emotional weight of displacement. To address these challenges, the troop translated its curriculum into multiple languages and hired bilingual staff. They also developed city-specific programming, teaching girls how to navigate public transportation, locate green spaces, and access essential resources. This adaptation demonstrates the troop’s commitment to inclusivity and its ability to respond to the evolving needs of the community.
Beyond Badges: Building Skills and Community
Despite the challenges, Troop 6000 operates much like any other Girl Scout troop. Girls participate in volunteer activities, learn about leadership, and earn badges. A cornerstone of the Girl Scout experience, cookie sales, also plays a vital role in Troop 6000. The annual cookie program isn’t just about selling delicious treats; it’s a valuable learning opportunity, teaching the girls about entrepreneurship, budgeting, goal setting, and communication. As Stranieri notes, the girls develop essential “elevator pitch” skills, learning to articulate their passions and advocate for their causes.
The troop’s impact extends beyond individual skill development. It fosters a sense of community and belonging for girls who often feel isolated and marginalized. The troop provides a consistent and supportive environment where they can build friendships, share experiences, and develop a sense of self-worth. What we have is particularly important for girls experiencing the trauma of homelessness, who may have limited opportunities for positive social interaction.
Supporting Troop 6000: Opportunities for Involvement
Supporting Troop 6000 is a tangible way to craft a difference in the lives of these young girls. One direct way to contribute is by purchasing cookies from Troop 6000 at their pop-up events. As of March 19th and 21st, 2026, the troop is hosting sales at Time Out Market New York in Union Square, with proceeds directly benefiting the troop, covering membership fees, uniforms, and sponsoring trips. Funds raised ensure that financial barriers do not prevent girls from participating fully in the Girl Scout experience.
For those unable to attend the pop-up events, the Girl Scouts offer alternative ways to support the troop. You can identify a map of cookie booths across New York City using the official cookie tracker on Timeout.com, or order cookies directly from the troop online through the Girl Scouts of NYC website at girlscoutsnyc.org. Every purchase contributes to the troop’s mission of empowering girls experiencing homelessness.
Troop 6000 represents a powerful example of how community-based initiatives can address complex social problems. By providing a safe, supportive, and enriching environment, the troop is helping girls overcome adversity, build resilience, and reach their full potential. The organization continues to expand its services and adapt to the changing needs of the community, demonstrating a long-term commitment to supporting girls experiencing homelessness in New York City and beyond.
Looking ahead, Troop 6000 will continue its programming throughout the spring and summer months, with ongoing cookie sales and community engagement activities. The troop is also planning a series of workshops focused on financial literacy and college preparation, equipping the girls with the skills they need to succeed in the future. The next scheduled cookie pop-up event is planned for April 2026, details of which will be announced on the Girl Scouts of Greater New York website.
What are your thoughts on the impact of Troop 6000? Share your comments below and aid spread the word about this inspiring initiative.
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