A Safe Place to Land
While the refugee family completes final checks in their second country, the resettlement agency in their third country* (GGIC) works to prepare a place for them to stay. Upon arrival, every family is placed in temporary housing that meets strict criteria for safety, cleanliness, and comfort.
Housing must meet basic IRC-defined standards—including reliable electricity and water, working smoke detectors, heating and air conditioning, and clean, secure sleeping spaces for all family members. Kitchens must be stocked with essential cookware; bathrooms must be functional and sanitary. GGIC goes above and beyond, ensuring that the home is fully furnished, with beds, linens, hygiene supplies, and culturally appropriate food waiting in the pantry. Most importantly, the space must feel safe and welcoming—a refuge for these families’ new beginning.
*The country to which the refugee(s) initially fled from their home (first) country
**The country of final destination, in this case the USA.
Nuestra vivienda temporal fue muy buena, nos sentimos bien, tranquilos y en armonía con el lugar.
Our temporary apartment was very good. We felt happy, calm, and in harmony with the place.
Home
Once families have begun to settle into life in Gainesville, the next major milestone is finding permanent housing. GGIC works with each family to find a long-term home that fits their needs and stays within their financial means.
Each family must consider budget, family size, school zoning, access to transportation, and proximity to work or community support. GGIC assists with lease negotiations, walks families through tenant rights and responsibilities, and ensures families understand how to maintain and care for their new homes.
Finally, GGIC mobilizes a team of volunteers and donors to fully furnish the home—beds, dressers, kitchen supplies, cleaning products, and even artwork or toys for children. Every room is move-in ready by the time families receive their keys. The first visit to a newly resettled family’s permanent home is always filled with joy and palpable hope.
Nuestra vivienda permanente, es ahora nuestro hogar, desde que el sr. Lauren nos trajó a verla sentimos que esta era la indicada para seguir forjando nuestra familia. Los niños se sienten felices de su nuevo hogar.
Since the moment that Mr. Lauren brought us to see the permanent housing (which is our current home), we felt that it was the destined place to continue forging our family. The children feel happy about their new home.
Mr. Ho travels 