THA Monthly Newsletter April 2024

April 2024

Highlights:

Columbia Gardens Apartments Now Leasing

Vendors Needed!

Table of Contents

Director's Note

THA Operations

Demolition & Revitalization

Boys and Girls Clubs of the Big Bend

Resident News & Events

Resident Resources

Resident Highlights & Community News

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.

Brenda Williams, Executive Director
850.385.6126

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 supportive 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 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 policy, they ensure that the Authority is fiscally responsible and operates in an efficient manner.

The Authority consists of two (2) distinctive residential Public Housing communities, (aka Asset Management Properties or AMPs), located in the incorporated areas of Tallahassee, Florida. There are a total of 346 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 to find available rentals, services, more about our programs, and information about payments.

Demolition & Revitalization

Now Leasing!

Columbia Gardens at South City is Open for Leasing
Looking for the perfect place to call home? Look no further than Columbia Gardens at South City! Our amazing community offers a variety of 1, 2, and 3 bedroom residences. Plus, our interiors are thoughtfully designed to create a welcoming and comfortable atmosphere that you'll love coming home to. And that's not all-we also offer a range of convenient on-site amenities that make life easier and more enjoyable. So come and be a part of our amazing community today!

For leasing information, please call or email us using the contact details provided, or visit our website.

Hours Mon - Fri | 9:00 AM - 5:30 PM
Contact 404.874.5000 | TTY/Relay 711

Building Exterior

Community Pool

Apartment Doorway

Building Exterior (Corner)

Complete Gym

Bedroom

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. The program operates Monday thru Friday from 3:00PM to 6:30PM after school.. During the summer, the hours extend from 8:00AM thru 5:30PM.

At the beginning of each Boys & Girls Club program, the boys and girls are greeted by staff and then served a healthy snack. Afterwards, the boys and girls begin their "Powerhour", during which they complete homework assignments and receive tutoring in any
subject that may present them with difficulty. After completing homework, the boys and girls participate in one of the character and citizenship building activities. These programs teach young people how to make positive decisions and develop good character traits. Prior to ending the day, the 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 the youth are encouraged to evolve into responsible, caring, and productive citizens. For more information, click here to Email Kacy Dennis or call 850.656.8100.

Click here for BGCBB Club Membership

Springfield Updates

This month, Springfield Boys and Girls Club honored Ashlyn Barnes, known as "Red," as the Youth of the Month. Ashlyn, an 8-year-old, loves dancing and being silly all the time. She is a joy to have in the center when she chooses to attend. Red's attendance at the Boys and Girls Club was low because she chose to stay in the apartment complex and participate in negative behavior. However, Red realized that not coming to the club was causing her to be involved in fights.
She started coming back to the club and had to be reminded of the rules, but she is doing much better now.

Teen students are participating in the Canvas Project with Mr. Jim and enjoying every minute of it. They particularly enjoy the shoes he brings in on display. Last week, they learned about blockchain technology. Jewels mentoring has been going great this month. The ladies enjoyed having a Valentine's party where they made lollipops.

Pinewood Place Updates

This month, the Pinewood Place Boys and Girls Club honored Sariya Hunter as their Youth of the Month. Sariya, a 10-year-old, enjoys coming to the club and playing with her brother. Ms. Hunter appreciated her gift bag as her reward. The Pinewood youth also enjoyed softball mini-skills. At Pinewood, each staff member holds onto a list of the youth they are responsible for, as well as a walkie-talkie for effective communication with each other when we are in separate areas. We often say, "Leave the negativity at the door," which helps us to redirect negative behaviors and conversations at our site. We encourage kind words and make it our mission to
acknowledge when a youth does the right thing.

Additionally, each member of the Pinewood team ensures that every youth has a safe place to go to talk if needed. This month, we recognized youth who excelled in Power Hour by taking them to Skate World. Moreover, each month brings new trip opportunities for youth to attend with different qualifications.

Softball Mini-Skills

Springfield Canvas Project

Pinewood Youth of the Month

Springfield Youth of the Month

Boys and Girls Clubs of the Big Bend Youth of the Year

Congratulations to Miya T.!

Resident News & Events

Get Added to Our Vendor List!

We might need your services
Become a Tallahassee Housing Authority Vendor and help facilitate a network of supportive services to enhance the quality of life for our residents. We require a robust vendor list to support our various residential communities including: electricians, flooring, insulation, mold assessment/removal, carpet cleaning, septic tank system/pump out, air conditioning, asphalt paving and striping, unit turn/make ready, tree removal, painting, alarm systems, security, lawn care, tub and counter top resurface, pressure washing, garage door installation/repair, roofing/gutters, plumbing, fencing, lawn equipment repair, appliance repair, disability equipment, welding, locksmith, dirt and sod/grass, relocation and haul-away.

To be added to our list, contact Dana Green at 850.385.6162 ext.155 or Email Dana. You can also click here to register online with the Housing Authority Marketplace at ha.internationaleprocurement.com.

To be considered, you will need appropriate licenses, insurance (Workers Comp unless exempt, General Liability, Automobile, and Professional Liability if necessary), and bid bonds (bids over $100,000).

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 residents in emergency circumstances and distress year-round.

Local Events

Springtime Tallahassee Festival | Friday-Saturday April 5-6
Downtown Tallahassee

Florida Gators at FSU Seminoles Baseball Game | Tuesday, April 9 | 6 PM
Dick Houser Stadium
CLICK HERE for ticket info

FAMU Spring Football Game | Saturday, April 13 | 4 PM
FAMU Bragg Memorial Stadium
CLICK HERE for ticket info

Tallahassee Jazz & Blues Festival | Saturday-Sunday April 13-14
3945 Museum Rd, Tallahassee, FL

LeMoyne Chain of Parks Art Festival | Saturday-Sunday April 20-21
Downtown Tallahassee

Word of South Festival | Friday-Sunday April 26-28
Cascades Park, 1001 S Gadsden St, Tallahassee, FL

Resident Resources

Empowering Residents Through the Family Self-Sufficiency Program

In our ongoing commitment to the well-being and prosperity of our residents, the Tallahassee Housing Authority emphasizes the importance of active participation in the Family Self-Sufficiency (FSS) program. FSS serves as a transformative pathway, fostering financial independence, career development, and personal growth.

Learn more about the FSS Program

What is FSS?
Scan QR Code or CLICK HERE for an informative video.

FSS Interest Form
Scan QR Code or CLICK HERE for a form.

Homeowner Readiness Survey
Scan QR Code or CLICK HERE for a form.

How to Improve Your Credit Score

Build Your Credit File

Don't Miss Payments

Catch Up On Past-Due Accounts

Pay Down Revolving Account Balances

Limit How Often You Apply for New Accounts

What Affects Your Credit Scores?
Learn how different types of accounts and actions can impact your credit scores.

How to Calculate Credit Card Utilization
Your credit utilization rate can have a big impact on your scores. The math is easy, but there are common misunderstandings about which numbers to use.

Credit Repair
How to "Fix" Your Credit Yourself: Find out how you can improve your credit for free.

4 Simple Habits That Build Good Credit
Follow these simple rules for building and maintaining good credit.

What Is a Bad Credit History and Rating?
If your credit needs some work, learn more about why you may have a bad credit score and what you can do about it.

Which Debts Should I Pay Off First to Improve My Credit?
Prioritizing certain bills can be important when you're trying to increase your credit scores.

Credit Myths
Learn the truth and don't get caught off guard.

Resident Resource Links

Salvation Army
The Salvation Army offers special one-time assistance to help you pay your rent.

Emergency Assistance

Catholic Charities, NWFLT, Emergency Assistance
Free food and meals, help with electric bills, grocery vouchers, Christmas and Thanksgiving meals, and more.

Domestic Violence Protections (VAWA)

Resident Highlights & Community News

Congratulations to our Executive Director, Brenda Williams

Named in Tallahassee Democrat's 25 Women You Need to Know Congratulations to Brenda Williams, Executive Director of the Tallahassee Housing Authority for being recognized by the Tallahassee Democrat as one of the 25 Women You Need to Know! We celebrate this well-deserved acknowledgment amidst your latest success in fostering affordable housing opportunities in the Tallahassee Community.

THA Employee Spotlight

Employee of the Month
Pinewood Apartments

Vergil Hendrix

Let's give a big round of applause to Vergil Hendrix, our Repair Tech, for his outstanding performance and dedication to excellence at Tallahassee Housing Authority! Since joining us on January 8, 2024, Vergil has truly proven himself to be an invaluable asset to our team.

Vergil's work ethic speaks volumes-he's a diligent and hardworking individual who consistently exceeds expectations. With his ability to work independently and his proactive approach to tasks, Vergil exemplifies what it means to be a self-starter.

Not only does Vergil excel in his role, but he also goes above and beyond to ensure that our residents at Pinewood Place Apartment receive exceptional customer service. Their glowing reviews speak volumes about Vergil's commitment to excellence.

We're proud to recognize Vergil Hendrix as our Employee of the Month! Thank you, Vergil, for your dedication and contributions to the Tallahassee Housing Authority community. Keep up the fantastic work!

Welcome, New Residents Pinewood Place Apartments

Kearra Butler and Family
Congratulations to Kearra Butler and her son Keshawn Butler for accepting a four-bedroom unit at Pinewood Place Apartments. The Butlers are excited about the extra space they will receive-Ms. Butler has four additional kids who will enjoy the larger space and cannot wait until she can finally make her kids a homecooked meal, instead of using an "air fryer." The Housing Authority presented the new family with a new admissions certificate, along with a small move-in basket for their new home.

Welcome home, Ms. Butler!

Love is in the Air

Antonia Harris
Antonia Harris came to public housing with her mother in 2011. After becoming an adult, she transitioned to her own one bedroom apartment at Pinewood Place. Finally, she will be embarking on a new chapter with her soon-to-be husband in their new single-family home. Antonia shared that the public housing program was there for her and her mother when needed, but she is happy to move with her fiancé to their new home! We wish them all the best.

National Fair Housing Month

National Fair Housing Month in April increases efforts to end housing discrimination and raises awareness of fair housing rights. The month also remembers the assassination of Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. in 1968 and his contributions to the Civil Rights Movement. The Fair Housing Act also celebrates its anniversary in April. In 2018, the Fair Housing Act celebrated its 50th anniversary. Designed to protect Americans from discrimination in the sale, rental, and financing of housing based on color, race, national origin, and religion, the act later extended to sex, disability, and family status.

Mold Addendum Updates

Mold: Mold consists of naturally occurring microscopic organisms that reproduce by spores. Mold breaks down and feeds on organic matter in the environment. The mold spores spread through the air, and the combination of excessive moisture and organic matter allows mold growth. Not all, but certain types and amounts of mold can lead to adverse health effects and/or allergic reactions. Not all mold is readily visible, but when it is, it can often be seen in discoloration, ranging from white to orange and from green to brown and black, and often a musty odor is present. Reducing moisture and proper housekeeping significantly reduces the chance of mold and mold growth.

Climate Control: Tennant(s) agree to use all air-conditioning, if provided, in a reasonable manner, use heating systems in moderation, and keep the premises properly ventilated by periodically opening windows to allow fresh air circulation during dry weather only. Tallahassee Housing Authority recommends that air conditioning is used during warm temperatures.

Tenant(S) Agree To:

Keep The Premises Clean And Regularly Dust, Vacuum And Mop

Use Hood Vents When Cooking, Cleaning And Dishwashing

Keep Closet Doors Ajar

Avoid Excessive Indoor Plants

Use Exhaust Fans When Bathing/Showering And Leave On For A Sufficient Amount Of Time To Remove Moisture

Use Ceiling Fans If Present

Water All Indoor Plants Outdoors

Wipe Down Any Moisture And/Or Spillage

Wipe Down Bathroom Walls And Fixtures After Bathing/Showering

Wipe Down Any Vanities/Sink Tops

Avoid Air Drying Dishes

Not Dry Clothes By Hang Drying Indoors

Regularly Empty Dehumidifier If Used

Open Blinds/Curtains To Allow Light Into The Premises

Wipe Down Floors If Any Water Spillage

Securely Close Shower Doors If Present

Leave Bathroom And Shower Doors Open After Use

Wipe Down Windows And Sills If Moisture Present

Use Dryer If Present For Wet Towels

Use Household Cleaners On Any Hard Surfaces

Remove Any Moldy Or Rotting Food

Remove Garbage Regularly

Wipe Down Any And All Visible Moisture

Inspect For Leaks Under Sinks

Check All Washer Hoses If Applicable

Tenant(S) Agree To Report In Writing:

Visible Or Suspected Mold

All A/C Or Heating Problems Or Abnormalities

Leaks, Moisture Accumulations, Major Spillage

Plant Watering Overflow Shower/Bath/Sink/Toilet Overflows

Leaky Faucets, Plumbing, Pet Urine Accidents

Any And All Moisture And Musty Odors

Discoloration Of Walls, Baseboards, Doors, Window Frames, Ceilings

Moldy Clothing, Refrigerator, And A/C Drip Pan Overflows

Moisture Dripping From Or Around Any Vents, A/C Condenser Lines

Loose, Missing Or Failing Grout Or Caulk Around Tubs, Showers, Sinks, Faucets, Countertops, Clothes Dryer Vent Leaks.

Executive Director, Brenda Williams In Community

OEV Event
Representatives from 5 Southern cities came to Tallahassee to learn about OEV's work in economic inclusion! From SoMo Walls to FSU's Doak Campbell Project, they saw firsthand how we're driving job creation, community growth, and exploring supplier diversity initiatives. Our Executive Director, Brenda Williams, had the opportunity to speak on our newest accomplishment, the new Columbia Gardens at South City Apartments.

Police Forum
The Tallahassee Urban league asked THA CEO, Brenda Williams, to participate in their Justice Forum. Brenda shared her perspective on crime and it's impact on our community in Tallahassee. THA has worked hard putting safety measures in place at our housing sites to ensure a safe environment for residents.

Black Business Expo
THA was a proud sponsor and exhibitor at the Black Business Expo! We seized the chance to shed light on our services and connect with the community. We are actively looking to expand our vendor partnerships, particularly with minority and small businesses. Let's collaborate and grow together!

Contact Dana Green via email for more information on partnering with us as a vendor.

"Men and women have worked together to build this nation. Too often the women were unsung and sometimes their contributions went unnoticed. But the achievements, leadership, courage, strength and love of the women who built America was as vital as that of the men whose names we know so well."

Closing out Women's History Month with a message from former President Jimmy Carter

Traditional Easter Meal

Brown Sugar Bourbon-Glazed Ham
It's hardly the holidays without a ham, and this one delivers big on festive flavor.

By Southern Living Editors

Hands On Time: 20 mins

Total Time: 3 hrs 10 mins

Servings: 8 to 10

Ingredients

1 (6- to 8-lb.) fully cooked, bone-in ham 48 whole cloves

1 (16-oz.) package light brown sugar

1 cup spicy brown mustard

1 cup cola soft drink

¾ cup bourbon

Directions

Preheat oven to 350°F. Remove skin from ham, and trim fat to 1/4-inch thickness.

Make shallow cuts in fat 3/4 inch apart in a diamond pattern.

Insert cloves in centers of diamonds.

Place ham in a lightly greased 13- x 9-inch pan.

Stir together brown sugar and next 3 ingredients; spoon mixture over ham.

Bake at 350°F on lowest oven rack 2 hours and 30 minutes, basting slowly with pan juices every 15 to 20 minutes.

Remove ham from oven, and let stand 20 minutes before slicing, basting occasionally with pan juices.