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While only 7% of the homeless population in the U.S. is actually chronically homeless, that still equates to thousands in need of help to end the cycle.

One of the most important things that separate GRACE from other programs is its unique, holistic approach to solving homelessness: GRACE for the Moment, GRACE for the Journey, and GRACE for the Future.

We’ve been able to do a lot in our first two years. More than 2,300 individuals have been served over 120,000 meals and nearly 28,000 nights of shelter. But we’ve got a longer-range plan.

Although not yet two years have passed since Grace Marketplace opened its doors, it has already become a center of help, healing and hope in our community. Grace has served more than 2,300 people over 120,000 meals. It has provided nearly 28,000 nights of shelter.

GRACE Marketplace will serve its 100,000th meal on Wednesday, February 17th, and will begin its new Culinary Training Program in February, as well. With the new kitchen in place, GRACE has been able to expand its services and the new Culinary Training program will prepare participants for jobs in local restaurants and institutions.

Thanks to our 2015 #fundGRACE campaign, we were able to raise $3,688 for job training and case management! Sign up for our newsletter here to follow our progress as we work hard to put others back to work!

This event requires that you NOT hire a babysitter, buy a new outfit, rent a tuxedo, mingle and dance. Instead, we invite you to kick back, relax, and — here’s the best part — stay home! In lieu of spending a fortune on a night out, why not relax in the privacy of your own home and make a valuable donation to a worthy cause?

Bruce Frendahl’s Oct. 25 column bought into a number of age-old assumptions about homelessness in Alachua County, and does more to perpetuate stereotypes about homeless people than it does to present solutions.

November is National Homeless and Hunger Awareness Month. The 2nd Annual Day of GRACE will be an exciting event. There will be lots to do and see, and we’ll cut the ribbon on our new kitchen!

We’re looking for a few great folks to join our team as a Shelter Case Manager, Kitchen Manager, and Kitchen Coordinator. Please review the job descriptions below and e-mail a résumé and cover letter to jdecarmine@gracemarketplace.org no later than 5pm on October 15, 2015.