EMERGENCY ASSISTANCE
PROVIDING BASIC NEEDS TO THOSE ON THE BRINK OF HOMELESSNESS
Our Emergency Assistance Program (EA) is a recognized and proven way to prevent homelessness in Gainesville and surrounding counties. Our program serves those in our community who are struggling to pay utility bills, rent/mortgage payments or need food assistance. By aiding them with these basic needs, we ensure they can stay safely in their homes.
Our food pantry currently provides about 850 pounds of food per week, serving more than 1,000 people per month. Families struggling to make ends meet can visit our pantry once per month. We provide food packages nutritionally balanced to meet the needs of each family or individual, including specialized foods for those who have diabetes as well as bags for homeless clients that take into consideration a person’s ability to cook. Food Pantry hours are Monday-Thursday 9:30am -12:30pm excluding holidays.
Our agency also offers limited financial assistance to help with rent, mortgages and utilities. In 2020, we provided more than 809 individuals in need with financial assistance through support from community partners like United Way of North Central Florida.
* photo and name changed for privacy
A STORY OF NEW BEGINNINGS: JAMES*
“During COVID I became a single father to two young children when my wife left us. Within a couple of months, I lost my job too. I used my savings to pay my rent, utilities, and personal necessities. Gradually, my savings were depleted, I realized I needed to reach out to different agencies for assistance. Although I have applied and I am actively looking for employment, I haven’t been able to find anything that provides me with the opportunity to work and be home with my children. I live in a rural area with limited job opportunities. Catholic Charities was able to help me with rent, as well as provided me with multiple job opportunities and other resources. My children and I are so grateful for their help during this difficult time.”
1,382 INDIVIDUALS
Received emergency financial assistance for rent, mortgages or utilities in the past year