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THA Monthly Newsletter Vol 4. August 2022

Vol. 4 August 2022

The Orange Avenue Redevelopment Newsletter. Tallahassee Housing Authority. Providing homes, building families, enhancing the future. 850-385-6126. TallHA .org. Accessibility Icons.

Highlights

  • Back to School Resources
  • Landlord Incentives

 

Table of Contents

  • Director's Note
  • THA Operations
  • Demolition & Revitalization
  • Boys and Girls Clubs of the Big Bend
  • Resident News & Events
  • Resident Resources
  • THA Recently, New National Lifeline Number

Director's Corner

Welcome to the THA monthly newsletter!

Dear Residents - As we redefine our work and deepen our commitment to providing a safe and enjoyable community residence, we are pleased to share this newsletter to provide you with the latest news, developments, accomplishments, and updates from the Tallahassee Housing Authority (THA) properties and staff.

As Executive Director, it is our mission to enhance and expand the quality of life in our community and to maintain and provide quality affordable housing. THA will facilitate a network of supportive services to enhance the quality of life for our residents. We are committed to quality service and will provide a professional atmosphere to our employees, partners, and the greater Tallahassee constituency.

Please do not hesitate to contact me with any concerns you may have. I am here to serve you.

Email Brenda Williams | 850.385.6126

Brenda Williams
Executive Director

Ms. Brenda Williams, Executive Director of Tallahassee Housing Authority, Headshot.

THA Operations

The Mission of the Tallahassee Housing Authority is to maintain and provide quality, affordable housing and facilitate a network of supportive services to enhance the quality of life for our residents.

Here's What We Do and How We Do It

Tallahassee Housing Authority provides quality affordable housing for low-to-moderate-income households, fosters sustainable communities, and cultivates opportunities for residents to improve their lives in collaboration with local support services. Much of the public housing stock in Tallahassee is over forty years old and is well-maintained by the housing authority. Over time, we will work toward the redevelopment of our housing stock. A principal plan for redevelopment was recently completed for our Orange Avenue Apartments.

The Authority is governed by a volunteer seven-person Board of Commissioners, appointed by the City of Tallahassee Commission. Through formal adoption of the policy, they ensure that the Authority is fiscally responsible and operates in an efficient manner.

The Authority consists of three (3) distinctive residential Public Housing communities (aka Asset Management Properties or AMPs) located in the incorporated areas of Tallahassee, Florida. There are a total of 549 residential units consisting of 41 single-family detached homes and 12 duplex units. The Authority also owns and maintains a 93-unit Low-Income Housing Tax Credit apartment community.

The Tallahassee Housing Authority is working to improve efficiencies so that all of our customers have access to information and services.

Explore the various links on our website. You'll find available rentals, services, more about our programs, information about payments, and lots more. www.tallha.org/about-tha.

A man holding a baby on his shoulders with a woman standing behind the baby.

Demolition & Revitalization

THA is redeveloping the Orange Avenue Apartments!

The redevelopment plan is expected to bring economic opportunities to residents. Through a partnership with Purpose Built Communities, a non-profit organization dedicated to improving racial equity, economic mobility, and health outcomes in communities across the country, the revitalization plan for Orange Avenue will also improve educational and health outcomes. The revitalization plan is designed with a holistic cradle-to-college approach not only to address residents' housing but to connect resources at all angles, including educational resources and access to quality healthcare.

All the buildings in Phase 1 have been demolished, including the community center. All of the units in Phase 2 are being abated. Once the abatement is complete, they will also be demolished. Phase 3 is vacant, and the units have been fenced in to secure the property.

The first phase of revitalized Orange Avenue Apartments is set to be completed by the end of 2023. The timeline for the entire four-phased project ranges from seven to 10 years from the onset of Phase 1 to the final ribbon cutting for Phase 4. The long-awaited change remains at the core of the capital city's efforts and will add to robust improvements for the southside community.

A tractor moving dirt. The Community Center being demolished. The Orange Ave Redevelopment Mock Up. Drain Pipes being installed during Phase 1. A building being demolished.

Boys & Girls Clubs of the Big Bend

BGCBB and THA

The mission of the BGCBB is to enable all young people to reach their full potential as productive, caring, responsible citizens. Club membership is free to Tallahassee Housing Authority residents, and enrollment is accepted at any time. The Boys & Girls Club of the Big Bend provides youth development activities, at no cost, to the residents of the Springfield and Pinewood Place communities. Our program operates Monday thru Friday from 3:00 PM to 6:30 PM after school. During the summer, our hours extend from 8:00 AM thru 5:30 PM.

At the beginning of each Boys & Girls Club program, the boys and girls are greeted by staff and then served a healthy snack. Afterward, the boys and girls begin their "Power hour," during which they complete homework assignments and receive tutoring in any subject that may present them with difficulty. After completing homework, our boys and girls participate in one of our character and citizenship-building activities. These programs teach our young people how to make positive decisions and develop good character traits. Prior to ending the day, our youth participate in a high-yield activity that gets them moving and energized. These activities include football, basketball, and dance. The Boys & Girls Club provides a positive environment in which our youth are encouraged to evolve into responsible, caring, and productive citizens. For information, email here or call 850-656-8100.

Kacy Dennis - CEO | Boys & Girls Club of the Big Bend
A headshot of Mr. Kacy Dennis.

Kacy Dennis is the Chief Executive Officer for the Boys & Girls Clubs of the Big Bend. As the CEO, he ensures that all youth receives a high-quality club experience every day at each of the seven facilities within the Big Bend area. Dennis has committed himself to youth development and leadership as he has been with the organization for over 18 years.

Before beginning his career in shaping the lives of youth, Dennis spent six years serving the State of Florida and the country as a member of the Florida Army National Guard. After a successful career in the military, he assisted veterans in need through the Wounded Warrior Project.

Dennis enjoys spending time with his wife and kids and can be found on Saturdays taking long hikes in the national forest, training his German shepherd, Amini, or trying out a new sport.

One of Dennis's favorite topics of conversation is the Boys & Girls Club. He is eager to discuss the different ways to get involved in the movement and help change the lives of youth. He can be reached via email.

Terrance Fregly Community Center Accomplishments

  • Pinewood Place currently has 128 registered members and averages 45 daily members.
  • The member of the month is Robert G., a 7th-grade student at Cobbs Middle School. This summer is his first experience with the Boys & Girls Club. He says, "I love coming here! I have made many friends and everlasting memories".
  • Pinewood hosted a career day during National Boys & Girls Club Week. During career day, members of the FSU chapter of NCNW spoke to the ladies about dressing for success and also how to conduct themselves in an interview. The FAMU chapter of Pi Beta Sigma spoke to the young men about the importance of hygiene and taking their education seriously.
  • Pinewood also hosted a cookout where the FAMU Sigmas volunteered and helped to make the last event of the week successful. Over 100 youth attendees were hosted for this fun event.
  • The Club Director, Ms. Daijah, is working with parents of youth with psychological disorders to find ways to accommodate the youth and ensure that they, too, are having a high-quality club experience. In doing so, Ms. Daijah is finding that these individuals are having fewer behavioral issues.

Springfield Community Center Accomplishments

  • At Springfield, there is a heavy focus on summer learning loss and working hard to ensure that youth are on track once they return to school in the fall.
  • Youth participants from the Springfield site had an opportunity to participate in National Lemonade Day by operating a lemonade stand that was sponsored by Carrabba's Italian Grill as part of the week's lesson on entrepreneurship.
  • Males from the Springfield club were treated to an outing sponsored by Mr. Kelley Phillips. Mr. Phillips took them to the Marine Specimen Lab, and they learned about marine biology and also had the opportunity to go crabbing.
  • Youth attendees visited the Challenger Learning Center for a "Journey to Space."
  • FSU student-athletes with Rising Spear stopped by to hang out with the members and played a game of kickball.
  • Club member Skye lead a special tour of the Springfield club for the Florida Alliance. They were thoroughly impressed with her knowledge and poise.

Weekly Activities

  • Second Harvest Commodities food deliveries
  • Second Harvest of the Big Bend food giveaway

Click here for a BGCBB Club Membership.

Resident News & Events

A dad holding a baby.

Attention Parents!
Registration is now open for the Back2School Giveaway.

Griffin Chapel Primitive Baptist Church is hosting its Back2School Giveaway event on Saturday, August 6, 2022, from 10 AM to 12 PM. This event includes a backpack giveaway for students at Riley Elementary School as well as supplies and snacks for each child's first week of school.

Registration is required for the giveaway and can be completed in person at Griffin Chapel on Sundays or online via Eventbrite. Registration ends August 1st. Parents/guardians must accompany students on the day of the event.

For information or questions, please contact Griffin Chapel P.B. Church Youth Advisor Ty Vickers at 850.391.1345.
CLICK HERE to register!

Attention Seniors!
Elder Care Qualification for Senior Residents.

Any residents 60 years of age or older may qualify for services at Elder Care Services. Free fans and space heaters may be provided depending upon the need. Also, assistance with utility bills may be provided to those eligible. Please contact Elder Care Services at 850. 921.5554.

Second Harvest of the Big Bend
Locate a food pantry near you by clicking HERE

Second Harvest of the Big Bend provides healthy food to relieve situations of emergency and distress year-round.

Free Events
Free Day at Mission San Luis | Thursday, August 4th | 10 PM
Mission San Luis, 2100 West Tennessee Street, Tallahassee, FL 32301

Back to School Bash | Saturday, August 6th | 10 AM
Florida Blue Tallahassee Center, 2116 Apalachee Parkway, Tallahassee, FL 32301

SoulPax Concert at the Warrior on the River | Wednesday, August 10th | 7 PM
The Warrior on the River Theater of the Performing Arts, 9330 West Tennessee Street, Tallahassee, FL 32304

Local Events
Pyramidpalooza | Saturday, August 6th | 5 PM
The Moon, 1105 E. Lafayette Street, Tallahassee, FL 32301
Admission: $10

Monday Night Family Sk8 Mania | Monday, August 22nd | 4 PM
Skate World, 2563 Capital Circle NE, Tallahassee, FL 32308
Admission: $4, Additional $4 for Skate Rental

American Vintage Markets: Tallahassee | Friday, August 26th | 9:00 AM
North Florida Fairgrounds, 441 Paul Russell Road, Tallahassee, FL 32301
Admission: $8

Resident Resources

Back to School Resources
5th Annual Shoes 4 School Giveaway | Sunday, August 7, 2022, | 11:00 AM
Presented by: The Family Worship and Praise Center's Community Development Corporation
FSU Civic Center Exhibit Hall, 505 West Pensacola Street, Tallahassee, FL 32301
Must register online at www.shoes4school.org.

Tutoring is available weekly on Wednesdays from 5:30 PM - 6:45 PM
The FWPC-CDC is offering to tutor students grades K-12, as well as select college-level students.

Enrichment Center is located at 2344 Lake Bradford Road, Tallahassee, FL 32310
To register, please download and complete the application and affidavit and email the documents. Please feel free to call 850.656.9378 with any questions!

Free Summer Meals
For Children & Teens (Ages 18 and under)

Monticello Teen Center
Mondays & Wednesdays | 10:30 AM - 1:00 PM
555 Tiger Lane, Tallahassee, FL 32344

Sunrise
Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays | 10:30 AM - 1:00 PM
2525 Texas Street, Tallahassee, FL 32301

Pinewood
Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays | 10:30 AM - 1:00 PM
2940 Grady Road, Tallahassee, FL 32312

Orange Avenue Complex
Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays | 10:30 AM - 1:00 PM
2710 Country Club Drive, Tallahassee, FL 32301

FAMU DRS
Monday - Friday | 7:00 AM - 12:00 PM
400 West Orange Avenue, Tallahassee, FL 32307

Dream Builders
Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays | 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
611 Miccosukee Road, Tallahassee, FL 32308

Springfield Complex
Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays | 10:30 AM - 1:00 PM
1702 Joe Louis Street, Tallahassee, FL 32304

Overcomer's Worship Center
Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays | 10:30 AM - 1:00 PM
850 Dade Street, Tallahassee, FL 32304

Miccosukee Boys & Girls Club
Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays | 10:30 AM - 1:00 PM
15011 Cromartie Road, Tallahassee, FL 32309

FDUB South
Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays (Hot Food Fridays) | 3:30 PM - 7:30 PM
3624 Woodville Highway, Tallahassee, FL 32305

Griffin Chapel
Mondays, Wednesdays, & Fridays | 10:30 AM - 12:30 PM
1100 Richmond Street, Tallahassee, FL 32304

Springfield Complex
Monthly News

  • Early voting polls will be located at Springfield Community Center for Primary Elections from Saturday, August 13 - Sunday, August 21, 2022. Early voting for General Elections will be from Sunday, October 24 - Sunday, November 6, 2022.
  • Pastor Buck from Credence Church held a weeklong Vacation Bible School at Springfield Community Center.
  • The monthly police meeting was held at Goodbread Hills Apartments.
  • Springfield currently has 6 units scheduled to be remodeled and updated.
  • Off-duty officers have been active in the community by controlling crime activity at the site.
  • The security camera installation at Springfield is 80% completed.
  • Riley Elementary School is accepting applications for kindergarten early enrollment.
  • Family Worship and Praise Church, under the leadership of Pastor Devon Griffin, provides summer breakfast and lunch meals to the children in the community at Springfield.
  • Tallahassee Urban League provides food drops at Springfield on the second Tuesdays of the month and every Thursday from 12 PM until the food is gone.
  • With published information and support from the Springfield staff, incidents of poor housekeeping are declining at the site.
  • The staff has been diligently working and has successfully removed several inoperative and unregistered vehicles from the site. Monitoring will continue to take place.
  • The Springfield staff is working very hard to maintain the property daily.

New Benefits for THA Landlords!
THA is now offering improved financial incentives for new units. Benefits include a signing bonus of $500 per new unit leased to homeless families using the Emergency Housing Voucher through the Housing Choice Voucher Program. This offer is only available while funding lasts. Join the HCV Program today to get started! For more information, please call 850.385-6126.

Gov. Desantis $450 School Payment
Notice and Eligibility

Select Floridian families may have recently received notice by mail regarding a one-time payment of $450 for each child as part of the state's new Hope Florida program. The payments were designed to assist households in paying for school-related items as a result of increased inflation.

To be eligible for this aid, people must meet one of the following qualifications:

  • Has an adopted/foster child in the household
  • Has a relative and/or non-relative caregiver, families in the Guardianship Assistance Program
  • Families receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families.

There is no need to apply for the $450 payment, as checks will be mailed directly to eligible families. Checks should arrive in time for Florida's back-to-school tax holiday from July 25th - August 7th, 2022. For more information, please visit www.MyFLFamilies.com

Two sets of hands laying on a table.

Resident Resource Links

THA Recent News

Happy Birthday!

THA would like to wish a very Happy Birthday to the following employees:

  • Eurika Vickers - August 2
  • Lekisha Graham - August 8
  • Angela McKinnon - August 9

Tallahassee Housing Authority recognized July as Disability Pride Month.

Last month, in keeping with our tradition of serving and accommodating the needs of the disabled, the Tallahassee Housing Authority recognized July as "Disability Pride Month." July 26 was National Disability Independence Day, a federally recognized day to celebrate the 1990 signing of the Americans with Disabilities Act (ADA).

The following is a list of community resources ready to assist those living and thriving with disabilities:

NEW NATIONAL SUICIDE NUMBER
For those in crisis and for those who simply need someone to listen, the number to call is 988.

The National Suicide Line has now streamlined access to its services.

Anyone in crisis or in need of someone with whom to talk may simply dial 988. Dialing 988 will connect you to a trained counselor who will listen, provide support and refer you to resources in your area if so desired.

In 2021, there were 42 suicides in Leon County alone. This is the greatest number of suicides in the county since 2012.

NEW LIFELINE NUMBER 988 GOES LIVE JULY 16, 2022