Gwinnett, Lawrenceville Help Support Safety-Net Organization

GWINNETT COUNTY, GA — The City of Lawrenceville and Gwinnett County are pledging to help secure $525,000 to fund the Lawrenceville Response Center (LRC), a local safety-net organization.

Lawrenceville’s city council unanimously finalized its support Wednesday at a special called meeting, drawing from city funds. Gwinnett County will secure its share through the federal CARES Act, which provides stimulus during the COVID-19 pandemic. Each is contributing $175,000.

The government contributions augment “an impressive $175,000 from small and large donors” already raised by the center, according to Gwinnett District 4 Commissioner Marlene Fosque.

“These actions reflect a strong partnership and collaboration to aid vulnerable families and residents as they struggle through the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic,” Fosque said in a statement Friday. “Gwinnett County is grateful to have opportunities to help support our neighbors, friends and communities during these difficult times."

The LRC was established in April 2020 by Impact46 and other partners to help those in need because of the pandemic. In 2020, the center assisted 786 people — including 381 children — with rent and shelter, child care, utilities, employment and food assistance. By negotiating with landlords and helping to prevent evictions, the LRC managed to relocate 28 families from homeless or temporary living conditions to permanent housing and livable-wage employment.

Among the LRC’s partners are the Lawrenceville Co-Operative Ministry, the Gwinnett Housing Cooperation, the Gwinnett Coalition for Health and Human Services and The United Way. The LRC currently has five paid staff members.

Lawrenceville residents who’ve lost their job or are struggling to keep their housing are eligible for help and should visit the Lawrenceville Response Center’s website for information.