GACAR Giving Circle announces first grant recipients

Press release from Gainesville-Alachua County Association of Realtors

GAINESVILLE, Fla. – The Gainesville Alachua County Association of Realtors (GACAR) is thrilled to announce the inaugural recipients of the GACAR Giving Circle Grants. With immense gratitude to our community supporters, we proudly present:

$50,000 Hearts for Housing Impact Grant Recipient: Family Promise for their Promise Center Rehab Project

Family Promise’s Promise Center Rehab project addresses homelessness and the affordable housing crisis through an innovative approach. The grant will fund the renovation of a building to create five transitional shelter units for homeless families, along with office and classroom spaces. These facilities will enable case managers to offer essential community services such as educational programs, affordable rental options, homeownership counseling, health and social services, job training, and daycare services, all targeting low- to moderate-income families.

$15,000 Brick by Brick General Grant Recipient: National Housing Development Corporation (NHDC) for their Individual Matching Housing Savings Program

The NHDC’s Individual Matching Housing Savings Program is designed to assist first-time homebuyers who are within a year of purchasing a home. This grant will support the program’s objectives of providing homebuyer education, personalized counseling, and matching funds up to $1,500 to supplement families’ housing savings. The program aims to empower low- and moderate-income families by equipping them with the knowledge and financial support needed to become successful homeowners. It targets first-time homebuyers who have completed a homebuyer education course, enrolled in personalized counseling, and have an income at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI).

“We are proud to contribute to the essential work being done by Family Promise of Gainesville and the Neighborhood Housing and Development Corporation,” said Adam Gurske, President of GACAR. “These grants reflect our commitment to creating stable housing solutions and preventing homelessness in our community.”

GACAR is thrilled to work with Community Foundation of North Central Florida (CFNCF). The GACAR Giving Circle is a fund/program conducted through CFNCF. “We are thrilled to announce the recipients of these impactful grants,” said Barzella Papa, President and CEO of the Community Foundation of North Central Florida. “Through the collective efforts of our giving circles, we are able to address pressing issues and make a real difference in the lives of those in our community.”