Alachua County Social Services
www.alachuacounty.us/Depts/CSS/SocialServices
Alachua County Social Services is committed to helping all Alachua County citizens reach or return to a state of self-sufficiency by providing temporary assistance through a variety of sustainability programs. Citizens must meet Core Eligibility Guidelines and fall within established limits of the annual Federal Poverty Level. Programs include AlachuaCares Health Services (Primary Care, Outpatient Diagnostics, Prescription Assistance, Medical Supplies, Vision Exams and Eyeglasses) and Sustainability Programs (Eviction and Foreclosure Prevention, Utilities Assistance, Public Transportation).
Florida Cancer Affiliates – Patient Resources (Ocala Oncology)
https://floridacancer.com/patients/patient-resources
Ocala Oncology/Florida Cancer Affiliates provides a public cancer resource room during business hours with free items such as wigs, hats, blankets, pillows, port covers, and more, along with information on local community resources. Emotional and psychosocial support is available through an on‑site emotional support counselor, as well as several local and virtual support groups, including general cancer support groups, a monthly breast cancer survivor group, and a multiple myeloma support group. In addition, educational opportunities are offered through community programs that provide cancer education and opportunities for patients, caregivers, and healthcare professionals to learn and connect.
Check website for group-specific contact #'s
Florida Cancer Specialists Lake City – Cancer Nutrition Counseling
www.flcancer.com/nutrition-and-wellness/
Oncology‑focused nutrition counseling and education is provided to support patients throughout cancer treatment and survivorship. Services are led by registered dietitian nutritionists with expertise in cancer care and include individualized nutrition guidance, virtual wellness and cooking classes, access to dietitian consultations, and educational newsletters. These services are designed to help patients maintain strength, manage treatment‑related side effects, and support overall health during and after cancer treatment.
(387) 401-7066
Gainesville, Florida Multiple Myeloma Support & Networking Group
Our mission is to support each other as Patients, Survivors, Caregivers, Family, and Friends in a friendly relaxed environment. We welcome all new members from any surrounding counties. We frequently have Oncology guest speakers, who keeps the group provided on new technology in the treatment of Multiple Myeloma. March is Multiple Myeloma Action Month and we now have an annual seminar in the month of march. Please come for a visit, and we hope you become an member.
UPDATE: Meetings are hosted via Zoom. Hope to have a combination of virtual and in-person in the near future.
Linda Stegall Henry
lshenry@embarqmail.com
352-529-7050
Meets 2nd Monday of the Month
5:30 - 7:30 pm
Cancer Center @ NFRMC Community Room
6420 NW Newberry Road
Gainesville, Florida 32605
HCA North Florida Cancer Support
www.hcafloridahealthcare.com/locations/north-florida-hospital/specialties/oncology/cancer-support
HCA Florida North Florida Hospital partners with Sarah Cannon Cancer Institute to offer comprehensive cancer support and survivorship services for patients, survivors, and caregivers in Gainesville and the surrounding region. Services include support groups, counseling and psychosocial care, nurse navigation, nutrition support, rehabilitation, financial and lodging guidance, spiritual care, and wellness resources designed to address the physical, emotional, and practical needs of individuals throughout the cancer journey. Support services are available from diagnosis through survivorship, with many resources offered both virtually and in person.
(352) 900-2658
6500 W Newberry Rd
Gainesville, FL 32605
Mesothelioma Guide
Mesothelioma Guide provides information to patients with mesothelioma and their families. Mesothelioma is a cancer caused by exposure to asbestos. Generally, it affects 3,000 people in the United States per year. It affects the lining of the lungs, abdomen, and heart. By offering material on the causes and risk factors associated with mesothelioma, treatment options that are available, and prognosis statistics, Mesothelioma Guide is one of the top sites on the web for those affected by mesothelioma.
SHARE: Dedicated Experienced Support for Women Facing Breast and Ovarian Cancers
For more than 35 years, SHARE has been a key source of information and support for women facing breast and ovarian cancers. By calling our toll-free helplines, people affected by these diseases can get immediate assistance from cancer survivors who are trained to provide support and information, and help callers sort through options and make informed decisions. SHARE offers a Breast Cancer Helpline, an Ovarian Cancer Helpline, a Caregiver Support Helpline and a Spanish-language Helpline. We also offer teleconferencing support for woman living with metastatic breast cancer. Every year, SHARE’s Helplines provide immediate help to thousands of callers who need to talk to someone who has been there.
Toll-Free National Support Line: 844-ASK-SHARE (844-275-7427)
(212) 719-0364
315 W 39th Street
Suite 910
New York, NY 10018
Breast Prosthesis, Wig & Accessories
4women.com
Provides fashionable scarves, accessories and natural makeup for women and girls who are experiencing hair loss. The beaubeau scarf is a unique alternative to wearing a wig. It comes in several different fabric choices and a myriad of colors and designs. Our swim cap (swimbeau) is a wonderful alternative to the traditional rubberized swim cap. It’s secure, comfortable and very fashionable. Our motto is “just because you have lost your hair does not mean you have lost your sense of style.”
A Place for Her—Baycare Home Care
Featuring a complete line of post mastectomy, lumpectomy and reconstructive products. Breast forms, brassieres, post-surgical camisoles, wigs and swimwear from well-known manufacturers such as Amoena, Camp, Airway, Classique, Ladies First, Jodee, Anita, Coloplast, Jon Renau and many more are available in assorted fashionable styles.
(727) 447-1146
1245 S. Fort Harrison Avenue
Clearwater, FL 33756
All About You Women’s Boutique
Offers a full line of quality breast forms and mastectomy bras for every type of breast surgery from the leading suppliers of mastectomy accessories. Fittings are available in a private area with a certified fitter.
Lori Timmreck
aaywbocala@gmail.com
(352) 236-2599
4901 E. Silver Springs Boulevard
Suite 505
Ocala, FL 34470
Cancer Care of North Florida
The American Cancer Society and Community Cancer Center of North Florida have partnered up and opened a resource center in Lake City.
Cancer Care of North Florida will be available to all cancer patients needing items such as wigs, prosthesis, hats, scarfs and varying literature on resources and services available. The center will be opened Monday – Friday from 8 am to 4 PM.
(386) 755-0601
4520 W US Highway 90
Lake City, Florida 32055
Especially for Women
especiallyforwomengainesville.com
Offers a full line of quality breast forms and mastectomy bras for every type of breast surgery from the leading suppliers of mastectomy accessories. Fittings are available in a private area with a certified fitter.
Rita Toro, Owner
office@especiallyforwomengainesville.com
(352) 332-9095
4994 NW 39th Ave
Suite D
Gainesville, FL 32606
The Pink Door
A boutique environment offering prostheses, mastectomy bras, specially designed sleepwear, loungewear, active wear, camisoles, swimwear, wigs, turbans, scarves and more.
Care
American Cancer Society (ACS)
Services such as transportation, housing, financial assistance, Hope Lodges, clinical trials, service matching and support groups are available to cancer patients and their families. ACS provides resources 24 hours a day, seven days a week.
Toll-free multilingual call center: 1-800-ACS-2345
Dragon Rises College of Oriental Medicine
Low cost clinic offers acupuncture and various modalities for the relief of the side effects of cancer treatments such as nausea and fatigue, and help in rebuilding the immune system. Please call to set up an appointment.
Haven Hospice
Haven Hospice offers Patient and Family Care at home, in nursing homes, in hospitals, and at their care centers. Haven Hospice also helps patients manage their symptoms and gives families/caregivers needed resources and assistance.
E.T. York Hospice Care Center: (352) 379-6210
Administrative Office: (352) 379-2929
Palliative Care: (352) 280-5450
Corporate Office: (352) 378-2121
Care Center and Corporate Offices
4200 NW 90th Blvd
Gainesville, FL 32606
Michelle M. Bishop, PhD – Clinical Health Psychologist
A licensed clinical health psychologist providing individual counseling and support for cancer patients, survivors, and caregivers, including those affected by blood or marrow/stem cell transplantation. Services include psychotherapy, caregiver support, and facilitation of cancer‑related support groups, offered in person and via telehealth.
Michelle Bishop
MichelleBishopPhD@gmail.com
(352) 331-0020
2653 SW 87th Dr
Suite A
Gainesville, FL 32605
UF Health Breast Center
www.ufhealth.org/breast-cancer
The UF Health Breast Center’s comprehensive medical team provides compassionate care and personalized treatment options for patients and their families. Clinicians and researchers are brought together who are dedicated to the prevention, diagnosis, and treatment of breast diseases. Their mutli-disciplinary team features UF Health breast surgeons, plastic and reconstructive surgeons, medical oncologists, and radiation oncologists working together to streamline care for women diagnosed with breast cancer as well as women at high risk for breast cancer.
(352) 265-7070
4037 NW 86th Terrace
Gainesville, Florida 32605
Children
BASE Camp Children’s Cancer Foundation
Providing a year-round base of support for children and families who are facing the challenge of living with cancer and other life-threatening hematological illnesses.
Camp Boggy Creek—Florida
Camp Boggy Creek provides free life-changing camp experiences in Eustis, FL. Mission: To enrich the lives of children (ages 7-17) who have chronic or life threatening illnesses by creating camping experiences that are fun, empowering, safe, and medically sound.
Nick Sano - Camp Director
nsano@campboggycreek.org
(352) 483-4200 ext. 4267
30500 Brantley Branch Road
Eustis, FL 32726
Camp Kesem at the University of Florida
Camp Kesem provides a free week of summer camp to kids who have a parent affected by cancer. Camp Kesem is a free sleep-away camp put on by University of Florida, Miami University and Florida State University students. This unique camp offers a fun, safe and supportive environment that allows children between the ages of 6 and 18 to form bonds with peers who share similar experiences.
Deliver the Dream
Deliver the Dream provides therapeutic programs to families facing a serious illness, crisis or disability. Our programs restore hope, strengthen relationships and change perspectives to provide inspiration for the future. We have 3 programs available to families at no cost: our family retreats, family fun days, and a new view. Please visit our website for more information.
contact@deliverthedream.org
(954) 564-3512 Toll Free: (888) 687-3732
3223 NW 10th Terrace
Suite 602
Fort Lauderdale, FL 33309
Give Kids the World
Give Kids the World is an 89‑acre resort in Central Florida for children ages 3 to 18 with life‑threatening illnesses who wish to visit the area’s theme parks and attractions. This is an all‑expense‑paid vacation, offered in partnership with wish‑granting organizations around the world, and includes a rental vehicle, theme park tickets, airfare, food, and a stay in an onsite villa. To be eligible, children cannot have had another wish granted.
(407) 396-1114
210 S Bass Road
Kissimmee, FL 34746
New Hope for Kids
New Hope for Kids is the largest independent child-based grief support program in Central Florida. It serves as a community fueled resource providing grief support for those who are grieving the death of a loved one and by granting wishes to children with life-threatening illnesses.
Sunshine Kids
Nonprofit organization providing emotional support to kids who are receiving cancer treatment. The Sunshine Kids Foundation is dedicated to providing exciting activities, trips, and events for young cancer patients free of charge (age newborn – 18 years).
National Office Toll-Free: (800) 594-5756
info@sunshinekids.org
FL Office: (239) 919-8867
9001 Highland Woods Blvd. #5
Bonita Springs, FL. 34135
Fitness & Stress Reduction
Gainesville Health & Fitness Cancer Recovery Program
Our free 4-week program is designed specifically for those newer to exercise or those looking for a gentle, supportive way to feel like themselves again. We focus on making you feel comfortable from day one, helping you find success in small wins, and building the confidence to live a more active life.
Your Path to Feeling Better:
- The Personal Consultation: Meet one-on-one with a GHF Fitness Specialist to map out a 4-week plan that respects your restrictions and honors your pace.
- A Gentle Start: Progress gradually through a mix of strength training, cardio, and soothing pool, stretch, and Tai Chi classes tailored to your current capacity.
- The Recovery Suite: Ease treatment-related aches in our sauna, steam room, and warm therapy pool, or find refreshment in the cold pool.
- Weekly Support: Stay encouraged with weekly check-ins to adjust your plan as you get stronger.
Don’t let treatment-related fatigue define your days. Rebuild your strength, experience a renewed sense of empowerment, and discover what your body is capable of in a welcoming environment. Contact Debbie Lee at 352.692.2115 or Debbie.Lee@ghfc.com to get started.
Safe & Comforting Massage for All
Offering therapeutic massage with skills in Deep Tissue, Connective Tissue, Polarity, MPS Scar & Pain Management Therapy, Warm Bamboo Fusion, Oncology Massage (safely works with Cancer and Mastectomy/Lymphedema Risk Patients)
Manual Lymphatic Drainage with Complete Decongestive Therapy
Integrative Therapies include: Aroma Therapy, Reiki, Oneness Blessing/Deeksha
Handicap Accessible office.
Lily is active and passionate in educating women on the risks and prevention of Lymphedema. She now offers a Lymphedema Risk Management MLD package that is affordable to all women. As a member of FSMTA and The Society For Oncology Massage, she actively volunteers in our community.
Lily Van Halen
lily@advancedmassageworks.com
(352) 278-1025
1810 NW 6th Street
Suite F
Gainesville, FL
Lodging
Alachua County State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP)
Provides financial assistance to income‑eligible residents for owner‑occupied home rehabilitation, first‑time homebuyer down‑payment and closing‑cost assistance, and disaster‑related housing needs. The program supports critical health and safety repairs to owner‑occupied homes through interest‑free, deferred loans that are forgivable as long as the home remains the applicant’s primary residence. SHIP also assists qualified first‑time homebuyers purchasing eligible new or existing homes, including certain mobile or manufactured homes. Funding is awarded on a first‑qualified, first‑served basis, with priority given to very low‑income households, seniors, essential personnel, and special‑needs households.
Alachua County SHIP Team
housing@alachuacounty.us
(352) 337-6240
10 SW 2nd Avenue, 1st Floor
Gainesville, FL 32601
Healthcare Hospitality Network
Member houses provide lodging and support services to patients, families, and their loved ones who are receiving medical treatment far from home.
(800) 318-8861
Ronald McDonald House of Gainesville
Provides temporary housing, basic amenities, and support to families with critically ill children treated at area medical facilities.
The Ulman Foundation
The Ulman Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting adolescents and young adults, along with their families, impacted by cancer. Through its comprehensive programs, the foundation addresses the physical, emotional, and social challenges that arise during treatment and survivorship.
One of its core services is the Ulman House, which provides free lodging for individuals undergoing cancer treatment away from home just blocks away from top hospitals and oncology programs in Baltimore, MD. The supportive residential environment is designed to reduce the financial and emotional burden of treatment travel.
In addition to housing, the Ulman Foundation offers virtual support groups and community programming that provide emotional support, peer connection, and survivorship resources for young adults navigating cancer treatment, recovery, and life beyond diagnosis. To learn more about all of these resources, visit their website.
Toll Free: 1-888-393-3863
info@ulmanfoundation.org
(410) 964-0202
Ulman House
2118 E Madison Street
Baltimore, MD 21205
Medical Assistance
Alachua County CHOICES Program
alachuacounty.us/Depts/CSS/Choices/Pages/Choices.aspx
A health services program designed to help working uninsured residents of Alachua County stay healthy. Eligibility Guidelines: Age 18 – 64, US citizen or permanent resident, Alachua County resident, employed 20 hours a week or more, limited household income, and not eligible for health insurance (Private, Medicaid, Medicare or VA Benefits).
Trelany Pennington
(352) 264-6707
218 SE 24th Street
Gainesville, FL 32641
Alachua County Health Department
County Health Departments provide primary care, pediatrics, family planning, HIV/AIDS services, and immunizations for individuals who are uninsured or under-insured. Fees are based on a sliding scale depending on income.
Office: (352) 334-7900
To make an immunization appointment: (352) 334-7910
224 SE 24th St.
Gainesville, FL 32641
Archer Family Health Care
A service of UF College of Nursing provides Primary Care services for adults and children. Participating providers of Aetna, Avmed, BCBS, Cigna, Humana, United Health Care, Medicare, and Medicaid. Uninsured patients are seen on a sliding fee scale determined by income and family size based on the Federal Governments Poverty Guideline. Patients are seen by appointment, walk in, and same day appointments.
Leanne Sanders, RHC-CP, CPB, Practice Manager
(352) 265-2550
16939 SW 13th Avenue
Archer, FL 32618
Aza Health
Azalea Health provides primary and preventative care for qualified clients. Fees are based on a sliding scale. Must provide proof of income.
(386) 684-4914
1213 State Road 20 W.
Interlachen, FL 32148
Bradford County Health Department
County Health Departments provide primary care, pediatrics, family planning, HIV/AIDS services, and immunizations for individuals who are uninsured or under-insured. Fees are based on a sliding scale depending on income.
(904) 964-7732
1801 N Temple Avenue
Starke, FL 32091
Children’s Medical Services- Gainesville
www.floridahealth.gov/individual-family-health/child-infant-youth/special-health-care-needs/cms/
Children’s Medical Services (CMS) is a collection of programs for eligible children with special needs. Each one of our programs and services are family-centered and designed to help children with a variety of conditions and needs.
Children's Medical Services: (850) 245-4201
UF Health North Central Early Steps Program: (800) 334-1447
1701 S.W. 16th Avenue
Building B
Gainesville, FL 32608
Columbia County Health Department
County Health Departments provide primary care, pediatrics, family planning, HIV/AIDS services, and immunizations for individuals who are uninsured or under-insured. Fees are based on a sliding scale depending on income.
(386) 758-1068
217 NE Franklin Street
Lake City, FL 32055
Dixie County Health Department
County Health Departments provide primary care, pediatrics, family planning, HIV/AIDS services, and immunizations for individuals who are uninsured or under-insured. Fees are based on a sliding scale depending on income.
(352) 498-1360
149 NE 241st Street
Cross City, FL 32628
Doctors Imaging Group
Committed to ensuring quality images as well as accurate and timely reports for the delivery of patient centered care. Offers low-cost/no-cost mammograms.
info@doctorsimaginggroup.com
(352) 331-9729
6716 NW 11th Pl
Suite 200
Gainesville, FL 32605
Equal Access Clinic
A network of interdisciplinary student-run free clinics through the University of Florida College of Medicine. The clinic provides healthcare services, patient education, and linkage to community resources. Clinics are located throughout Gainesville, check website for availability.
For appointments, call: (352) 273-9425
Florida Breast & Cervical Cancer Early Detection Program (FBCCEDP)
FBCCEDP is a breast and cervical cancer screening program that provides reduced-cost or free mammograms, clinical breast exams, and Pap smears to low-income, uninsured women between the ages of 40 and 64 at or below 200% of the federal poverty level whose primary residence is in Florida. The Putnam County Health Department (CHD) provides FBCCEDP services in North Central Florida for the residents of Alachua, Bradford, Columbia, Dixie, Gilchrist, Hamilton, Lafayette, Levy, Putnam, Suwannee, and Union Counties.
Gilchrist County Health Department
County Health Departments provide primary care, pediatrics, family planning, HIV/AIDS services, and immunizations for individuals who are uninsured or under-insured. Fees are based on a sliding scale depending on income.
(352) 463-3120
119 NE 1st Street
Trenton, FL 32693
Hamilton County Health Department
County Health Departments provide primary care, pediatrics, family planning, HIV/AIDS services, and immunizations for individuals who are uninsured or under-insured. Fees are based on a sliding scale depending on income.
(386) 792-1414
209 SE Central Avenue
Jasper, FL 32052
HCA Florida North Florida Hospital — Breast Care Center
www.hcafloridahealthcare.com/locations/north-florida-hospital/specialties/womens-care/breast-health
HCA Florida North Florida Hospital’s Florida Breast Center in Gainesville provides comprehensive breast health services focused on early detection, education, and advanced diagnostic care. The center offers digital mammography, diagnostic imaging such as ultrasound and MRI, breast self-exam education, and care for both cancerous and noncancerous breast conditions. Specialized programs, including high‑risk women’s screening and genetic counseling, support personalized care and improve early identification and treatment outcomes.
(352) 333-4000
6500 W Newberry Road
Gainesville, FL 32605
HealthStreet
A resource provided by the University of Florida Department of Epidemiology that offers community-based efforts to reduce disparities in healthcare and research by providing the medically underserved with medical and social services and opportunities to participate in research. HealthStreet also offers free services including: health screenings, use of computers, classes, and more.
Helping Hands Clinic
A free medical clinic for the homeless. Services include: primary care, psychiatric care, dental care, nursing care, immediate needs management and preventative care. It also provides clothing, haircuts, and showers to those in need.
(352) 519-5542
509 NE 1st St
Gainesville, FL 32601
Lafayette County Health Department
County Health Departments provide primary care, pediatrics, family planning, HIV/AIDS services, and immunizations for individuals who are uninsured or under-insured. Fees are based on a sliding scale depending on income.
(386) 294-1321
140 SW Virginia Circle
Mayo, FL 32066
Lake Shore Hospital Authority
Lake Shore Hospital Authority offers health care financial assistance for Columbia County residents who have lived in Columbia County for at least ninety days (90) and meet income guidelines. Clients must provide photo identification, proof of residency, and proof of income with an application to be considered.
Levy County Health Department
County Health Departments provide primary care, pediatrics, family planning, HIV/AIDS services, and immunizations for individuals who are uninsured or under-insured. Fees are based on a sliding scale depending on income.
(352) 486-5300
66 West Main Street
Bronson, FL 32621
Palms Medical Group — Gainesville
One of two Federally Qualified Health Centers of the same name in the NCF region that provides a full range of healthcare services for all the stages of one’s life. A low-cost/no-cost wellness clinic; schedule annual physical exams and referrals for cancer treatment. Palms accepts most public and private insurance, including Medicare and Medicaid. Palms offers financial assistance in the form of a sliding fee scale, based on income.
(352) 376-8211
200 SW 62nd Blvd
Gainesville, FL 32607
Palms Medical Group — Lake City East
A Federally Qualified Health Center that provides comprehensive primary care services for qualified clients. They accept Medicaid, Medicare, and most private insurances, as well as uninsured patients. Fees are based on a sliding scale determined by income and family size. A medication assistance program is available as well.
(386) 755-4020
173 NW Albritton Lane
Lake City, FL 32055
Putnam County Health Department
County Health Departments provide primary care, pediatrics, family planning, HIV/AIDS services, and immunizations for individuals who are uninsured or under-insured. Fees are based on a sliding scale depending on income.
Southeastern Integrated Medical (SIMEDHealth)
simedhealth.com/content/gainesville-west-newberry
Southeastern Integrated Medical (SIMEDHealth) is a team of physicians, medical professionals and staff members from the North Central Florida community that offers a range of health and patient care services. Services and procedures include assistance with finding a physician or clinic, insurance and payment information, and a range of integrated medical services. Offers low-cost/no-cost mammograms.
Administration: (352) 224-4090
4343 Newberry Road
Suite 18
Gainesville, FL 32607
The RAHMA Mercy Clinic
The RAHMA Mercy Clinic offers free medical services to individuals and families with earnings less than 200% of the Federal poverty Level who are uninsured. Services include: routine adult medical care, general pediatrics (limited basis), specialty care and diagnostic studies, appropriate referrals for Choices, Medicaid, KidCare and other health insurance options, social services referrals, and free labs and medications for eligible patients. A low-cost/no-cost wellness clinic; schedule annual physical exams and referrals for cancer treatment.
UF Shands Eastside Community Practice
ufhealth.org/locations/uf-health-family-medicine-eastside
General family care offered by University of Florida physicians. Provides patients with consultations, evaluations and treatments for the entire family. A low-cost/no-cost wellness clinic; schedule annual physical exams and referrals for cancer treatment.
(352) 265-7015 (Adults)
(352) 265-7017 (Pediatrics)
410 NE Waldo Road
Gainesville, FL 32641
Union County Health Department
County Health Departments provide primary care, pediatrics, family planning, HIV/AIDS services, and immunizations for individuals who are uninsured or under-insured. Fees are based on a sliding scale depending on income.
(386) 496-3211
495 E Main Street
Lake Butler, FL 32054
We Care Physician Referral Network — Alachua County Health Department
alachua.floridahealth.gov/programs-services/wellness-programs/we-care-physician-referral-network
We Care provides access to necessary volunteer medical and dental services for uninsured residents with low income. We Care program components include primary medical care, specialty medical care, and oral health services. Self-referrals are accepted for oral health services. A participating We Care physician must initiate referrals for all medical services. We Care is not an entitlement program. Services are limited by the availability of a volunteer provider. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call the number provided.
(352) 334-7926
224 SE 24th St.
Gainesville, FL 32641
Outreach
Cancer Connections
cancer.ufl.edu/community/education-resources/cancer-connections/
Meets once a month virtually from noon until one. The meetings are open to cancer patients, survivors, caregivers and all healthcare professionals who treat them. Each month a speaker gives a presentation on some facet of cancer care. Cancer Connections brings together cancer patients, survivors, caregivers and cancer health care professionals who treat or provide a service to those affected by cancer. Attendees gain a deeper awareness of current research, treatment options and health care services available for cancer care. For meeting dates and topics contact Laura Parra.
Laura Parra
lauraparra@ufl.edu
(352) 273-9004
2033 Mowry Road, Suite 145
Gainesville, FL 32610
Florida Department of Health
The Bureau of Chronic Disease Prevention and Health Promotion and FDOH’s Comprehensive Cancer Control Program provides information and resources for individuals regarding cancer and related topics. These can be found under Prevention & Wellness within the Cancer Prevention and Treatment and Chronic Disease Prevention tabs.
(850) 245-4444
Florida Organic Growers
Florida Organic Growers (FOG) offers SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program, formerly food stamps) recipients the opportunity to use their benefits to purchase food at two farmers markets in Alachua County: the Saturday Alachua County Farmers Market and the Wednesday Union Street Farmers Market. Debit/Credit capabilities are also available.
WHO CAN USE THIS SERVICE?
EBT (Electronic Benefits Transfer) technology allows those with SNAP benefits (food stamps) to use their EBT cards at the farmers markets to purchase acceptable items.
Those who wish to use debit or credit cards will also be able to use their cards at the market.
HOW DOES IT WORK?
The project uses a token system to enable customers with EBT, Debit or Credit Cards to shop at the farmers markets. Here’s how it works:
1. A customer swipes the EBT, Debit or Credit card at the central POS terminal and enters the PIN.
2. The FOG staff enters the amount of tokens requested into the terminal.
3. Once the transaction is approved, the customer is given a transaction receipt and tokens.
4. The customer then uses the tokens at any participating vendor’s stand.
WHEN ARE THE FARMERS MARKETS?
The Union Street Farmers Market runs every Wednesday from 4:00pm to 7:00pm.
The Alachua County Farmers Market is every Saturday from 8:30am to 1:00pm.
WHY SHOULD I SHOP AT THE FARMERS MARKET?
A diet consisting of at least five servings (2 to 3 cups) of fruits and vegetables daily decreases the risk of heart disease, stroke, obesity, diabetes and certain cancers. Those who consume eight or more servings are 22 percent less likely to die from heart disease than those who consume three or fewer servings a day. Buying from a farmers market means you’re able to purchase food often picked within a couple days of the market date, so its nutritional quality is still high, and it oftentimes hasn’t traveled across the country using valuable fuel resources. It also means your dollar is going back into the local economy, helping the farmers and other business owners in the community.
WHAT ELSE WILL BE OFFERED?
The on-site FOG market booth will be an informational and education hub, with community resources on gardening, nutrition, cooking, community events and opportunities. It will also provide a place where people can learn how to enroll in SNAP.
North Central Florida Cancer Control Collaborative
Supports cancer patients, survivors, and their families through community-based events and partnerships. They provide the cancer community with networking opportunities and educational programs, and promote strategies for cancer control and prevention. North Central Florida Cancer Control Collaborative publishes the Cancer Resource Guide for North Central Florida and The Cancer Resource Blog.
Lindsey Redding
lredding@wellflorida.org
352-313-6500 x8010
1785 NW 80th Blvd.
Gainesville, FL 32606
Rural Women’s Health Project
A nonprofit organization that creates and implements community-based health-education projects, trainings, and materials to assist communities in strengthening their understanding of critical health, occupational, and family issues.
info@rwhp.org
(352) 372-1095
Veronica Robleto
Director
vrobleto@rwhp.org
Adriana Menendez
Assistant Director
amenendez@rwhp.org
Sisters Network, Inc. (SN)
SN seeks to increase local and national attention to the devastating impact that breast cancer has in the Black community. All chapters are run by breast cancer survivors. The NE Florida Chapter is in Jacksonville.
Dianne Townsend
neflorida@sistersnetworkinc.org
Northeast Florida Chapter: 904-757-6622
P.O. BOX 28122
Jacksonville, FL 32226-8122
UF Health Mobile Cancer Screening Connector
cancer.ufl.edu/community/mobile-cancer-screening-connector
A mobile outreach program designed to expand access to cancer screening, education, and care across North Central Florida. The unit brings services directly to communities and events, offering screenings for breast, cervical, colorectal, and prostate cancers, along with health education, financial navigation, and connections to primary care and research opportunities. The program focuses on reducing barriers such as transportation, cost, and time away from work to support early detection and improved cancer outcomes.
(352) 740-4667
UF Health Cancer Institute
2033 Mowry Rd
Suite 145
Gainesville, FL 32610-3633
United Way of North Central Florida
Provides free public access and referrals to non-emergency social services for human service agencies, community clubs, interest groups, support groups, government services, recreation, education programs, and health resources through the 2-1-1 information and referral helpline.
211: Free service provided by United Way that connects area residents to local resources and services
(352) 331-2800
6031 NW 1st Place
Gainesville, FL 32607
Prescriptions
Alachua County Social Services — Prescription Discount Card
www.alachuacounty.us/Depts/CSS/SocialServices/Pages/PrescriptionDiscountCards.aspx
The Alachua County Prescription Discount Card, in conjunction with the National Association of Counties, offers a complementary discount card program to help Alachua County residents cope with the cost of prescription drugs. The Alachua County Prescription Card is FREE and available to ALL county residents regardless of income.
Sarai Cabrera, Director of Social Services
(352) 264-6750
218 SE 24th Street
Gainesville, FL 32641
FloridaRxCard
Florida Rx Card is a free statewide discount prescription assistance program. The program was launched to help uninsured and underinsured residents afford their prescriptions. It provides free prescription coupons that can be printed, texted, saved, or emailed. All residents are eligible to get pharmacy discounts through this program.
Transportation
Air Charity Network
Provides access for people in need who are seeking free air transportation to specialized health care facilities or distant destinations due to family, community, or national crisis. Air Charity Network serves all 50 states and its volunteer pilots utilize their own aircraft, fuel, and time to provide free air transportation to medical facilities for citizens who are financially distressed or otherwise unable to travel via public transportation.
Corporate Angel Network, Inc. (CAN)
CAN finds free air transportation on corporate flights for eligible cancer patients who need medical treatments like surgeries, clinical trials, or second opinions.
MV Transportation — Alachua County Transit
MV Transportation, Inc. and all subsidiaries, joint ventures, partnerships and affiliates is a privately held corporation that provides passenger transportation management, operations, and related services to jurisdictional and private entities across North America.
(352) 375-2784
3713 SW 42nd Street
Suite 3
Gainesville, FL 32608
Road to Recovery
www.cancer.org/treatment/support-programs-and-services/road-to-recovery.html
The Road to Recovery program (provided by the American Cancer Society) provides transportation to and from treatment for people who have cancer and do not have a ride or are unable to drive themselves. Volunteer drivers donate their time and the use of their cars so that patients can receive the life-saving treatments they need. Call to learn more about Road To Recovery availability near you.
National Cancer Information Center
1-800-227-2345
Suwannee Valley Transit Authority
Suwannee Valley Transit Authority is committed to providing safe & reliable paratransit transportation to the public in Columbia, Hamilton, and Suwannee Counties. If you need a ride, call because they can take you to your doctor’s appointment, work, or a trip to the local grocery store. Suwannee Valley Transit Authority services are available Monday-Friday. Call your HMO provider directly to schedule transportation if you are Medicaid eligible.
Candice Kennon, Administrator
candice.kennon@ridesvta.com
(386) 362-5332 or (386) 362-7433 to schedule transportation
Toll Free: 1-800-258-7267
1907 Voyles Street SW
Live Oak, FL 32064
Touching Hearts at Home
touchinghearts.com/gainesville/
Provides personal care and companionship services in Gainesville, The Villages, and Ocala tailored to individual needs. Their caregivers specialize in Alzheimer’s, Dementia, and Parkinson’s care. Services range from a few hours to 24/7 support, including meal preparation, transportation, light housekeeping, and assistance with daily activities like bathing and grooming.
(352) 225-3727
4051 NW 43rd Street
Suite 37
Gainesville, FL 32606
