Grant Award: PSF

United Way North Central Florida Awards $40,000 Grant to Partnership for Strong Families to Support Rural Emergency Assistance Efforts

Photo of United Way staff presenting check to Tri-County Community Resource Center
From left to right: Maddye Fleming, UWNCFL Director of Community Impact; Beverly Goodman, Manager Tri-County Community Resource Center; Katie Hammers, UWNCFL Tri-County Recovery Coordinator

United Way North Central Florida (UWNCFL) is thrilled to announce the awarding of a $40,000 grant to Partnership for Strong Families (PSF) aimed at enhancing essential emergency assistance programs in rural communities across the region. The funding will specifically support the Tri-County Community Resource Center and the Alachua County Community Resource Navigators as part of PSF’s Rural Emergency Assistance Program, designed to alleviate crises faced by ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed) households.

The Rural Emergency Assistance Program offers crucial support—such as rent, utility, and internet assistance, employment-related childcare, and other urgent needs—to help stabilize ALICE households and prevent further financial and personal distress. These targeted resources will strengthen PSF’s capacity to assist families in Dixie, Gilchrist, Levy, and Alachua counties.

“United Way North Central Florida is committed to helping households in our region not just survive, but thrive,” said Amber Miller, President and CEO of United Way North Central Florida. “ALICE families are the backbone of our communities, yet they are often one unexpected event away from crisis. Through this investment in Partnership for Strong Families, we are reinforcing real, immediate solutions that will make a lasting difference for families in need.”

UWNCFL’s investment in PSF aligns with its overarching mission to enhance lives by mobilizing the caring power of communities for the common good. With a focus on four key impact areas—financial security, healthy community, youth opportunity, and community resiliency—and utilizing ALICE data, UWNCFL directs funding towards nonprofit programs that are in alignment with the organization’s strategic funding initiatives.

The grant is expected to have a significant impact, particularly in regions where access to support services is limited due to geographic and economic factors. By focusing on ALICE households, this initiative ensures that those who are working hard to make ends meet receive the necessary support to overcome immediate challenges and build a more financially secure future.

Community engagement and support are vital for the success of these initiatives. United Way North Central Florida invites local residents, businesses, and organizations to contribute to their mission by volunteering, donating, or advocating for the needs of ALICE households. Together, these collective efforts will strengthen the fabric of community and contribute to a more resilient society.