Serving Our Neighbors
GGIC provides direct, practical support to international, immigrant, and refugee individuals and families in Greater Gainesville. This work grew out of our role as a resettlement affiliate of the International Rescue Committee and continues today through our staff, trained volunteers, and partners across local government, schools, faith communities, and the University of Florida. We help newcomers navigate the systems they depend on, connect them to the right partners, and advocate for them when those systems fall short. In 2025, we supported more than 150 families and individuals.
Housing: finding a home, working with landlords, move-in support, and donated furniture
Health care: Medicaid and insurance enrollment, connections to primary care and free clinics, and help navigating appointments
Public benefits: applying for SNAP, TANF, Medicaid, and KidCare, and resolving problems when applications stall
Schools: enrolling children in Alachua County Public Schools and helping families communicate with their schools
Employment: job-search support and referrals to employment partners
Touring a local facility and meeting employers is part of how GGIC connects newcomers with job opportunities.
Cultural Orientation: classes on housing, health and safety, know-your-rights, transportation, employment, and money and technology
English: introductory survival English classes and a directory of free and low-cost English classes in the community
Legal and safety referrals: connections to legal aid, interpreters, and domestic violence services
Newcomer resource and housing guides in ten languages
When families told us they were not receiving school messages in the language they had selected, GGIC brought specific examples to Alachua County Public Schools. The district corrected its system in February 2025, and every family who relies on that setting now benefits.
Need help? Call 352-871-0895 or email poe@gnvic.org. Want to help? Volunteer with GGIC