Social Services

Foster Grandparent Program

The Foster Grandparent Program has joined under Social Services as of October 1, 2012.

The Foster Grandparent Program (FGP) offers volunteer opportunities to lower-income persons who are at least 55 years of age.  The program is funded primarily by a federal government grant, and pairs 55 and over residents with special needs children in a variety of educational child care centers, public schools and afterschool programs.  Foster grandparents are responsible for administering educational support and mentoring to two special needs children.  Administered through the Corporation for National and Community Service (CNCS), the program provides a modest hourly stipend and supplemental insurance benefits.  For a more detailed description and for staff contacts, please click on the link below.

Motto

Alachua County Division of Social Services motto, "Reaching People, Helping People," is the goal that we strive to reach in working with the citizens of Alachua County. The Division of Social Services is funded by the Alachua County Board of County Commissioners and therefore is available only to its eligible citizenry. We look forward to seeing you.

Our Vision

All Alachua County residents have access to medical care and affordable housing which sustains our vibrantly diverse and cohesive community. 

Our goals are to:

1. Increase the awareness of services offered to the community
2. Improve the quality of customer serivce
3. Increase the availability and accessibility of services to citizens
4. Develop innovative programs to expand services

Who We Are

Alachua County Office of Social Services (ACOSS), is a County agency established by the Alachua County Board of County Commissioners and funded through Alachua County property tax revenue.

We serve eligible low income residents of Alachua County with medical or general assistance needs for which there are no federal, state, or private programs available.  Eligible residents must meet the Core Eligibility guidelines and fall within the established Federal Poverty Level.

ACOSS is committed to helping individuals, either through the direct provision of our services or by referrals to other agencies.  We support individuals in their efforts to achieve or return to self-sufficiency.