United Way of North Central Florida recently awarded its inaugural $25,000 ALICE Catalyst Grant to The Nehemiah Project to pilot its Recovery Bucks Program.  

The program aims to reduce economic and practical barriers that prevent full engagement in recovery, education and workforce development. The grant and program target the ALICE population (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed).  

Amber Miller, CEO of United Way North Central Florida, said in a press release the new grant is an example of how the nonprofit invests in community-driven initiatives that meet people where they are. The nonprofit recently pivoted to focus on ALICE households. 

“The Nehemiah Project’s Recovery Bucks program recognizes that ALICE households aren’t lacking motivation or effort; they’re facing real, practical barriers,” Miller said in the release. “By pairing accountability with flexible support, this program removes those barriers and helps families move from survival to stability.” 

The Nehemiah Project, founded in Putnam County, focuses on substance treatment and recovery. Through the Recovery Bucks Program, participants can earn credit by participating in peer-led services that promote recovery capital, digital inclusion, educational attainment, and employment readiness. That credit, or the Recovery Bucks, can be used for essential clothing, childcare, transportation, housing supports such as saving toward a sober living down payment and education-related expenses.