Immigration

Gainesville immigrants lean on community in the face of challenges

Paula and her family left their native Mexico to chase their dream of opportunity in the United States. A lot of paperwork and a two-day bus ride later, they arrived in Gainesville in May. Since then, Paula’s family has struggled to get their feet on the ground. Paula and her husband do not have the legal documentation to work in the U.S. Their efforts to find schools for their sons and a way to earn an income while dealing with their legal status have been nearly impossible to navigate, said Paula, who is waiting for her family's 2024 court date to seek asylum. Paula’s story exposes the challenges that immigrants face in Gainesville and other parts of the country.

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Upcoming food truck rally in Gainesville will benefit Afghan and Haitian refugees

The Original Gainesville Food Truck Rally, which will be held on Saturday starting at 4 p.m., will benefit Welcoming Gainesville and Alachua County, an organization that aims to eliminate prejudice, celebrate diversity and help newcomers to the community. The event, sponsored by the University of Florida College of Pharmacy, will have a free concert at High Dive, about 10 food trucks and a cultural student talent show.

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