Gratitude & Growth: Reflecting on Our Community's Strength and Success

by Jerome D. Ryans, President & CEO, Tampa Housing Authority

Inspired by the spirit of Thanksgiving, I am filled with gratitude for the wellbeing of our nearly 20,000 Tampa Housing Authority families. Reflecting on the past year, I am reminded of the profound impact we have when we come together to serve, uplift, and empower our those we serve. I am deeply thankful for the dedication and resilience of our staff, our residents, and our partners, whose combined efforts allow us to make strides in affordable housing and community development every day.

This year, our Assisted Housing Department achieved a remarkable milestone-earning HUD's prestigious High Performer recognition for the 17th consecutive year. This honor is evidence of our team's hard work, and I am proud of their commitment to excellence. Additionally, we received the largest Family Self-Sufficiency award in the State of Florida, an opportunity to further empower our families on their journey to economic independence.

I am also grateful for our agency's role in creating affordable housing, highlighted by recent groundbreakings at West River, Rome Yard, and Zion Village. These developments symbolize hope and opportunity, marking significant steps in providing quality housing for families in need. We have also made great progress on the redevelopment of Robles Park Village, a transformation that will provide a vibrant new community for generations to come.

Our community is growing and thriving, and I am thankful for the enhanced retail options emerging at ENCORE! and West River. Recent additions like Grow Financial, Bell Pharmacy, Publix, and Kulture Kitchen Restaurant are enriching the lives of our residents and fostering a vibrant local economy.

This year, our team showed exceptional commitment in the face of unexpected challenges. After Hurricane Milton, staff members went above and beyond, supporting our residents even when they themselves were dealing with hardships like displacement or power outages. Their dedication to our mission inspires me daily, and I could not be prouder of the work they do.

I am incredibly grateful for the robust wraparound services we offer to our families. These programs are the foundation for healthier, more prosperous lives, providing the support they need to reach their fullest potential.

I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our amazing partners whose support makes our work possible. Although it is impossible to list everyone in this blog, know that your contributions are invaluable, and you have my deepest thanks.

We are also fortunate to have the steadfast support of our elected officials at every level of government National, State, County, and City. Your partnership is a cornerstone of our success and growth. Lastly, but certainly not least, our Board of Commissioners deserves special recognition for their guidance and generosity, empowering us to serve our community with vision and compassion.

This Thanksgiving, let us celebrate our achievements and express gratitude for the community we have built together. From my family to yours, I wish you a season of peace, health, and joy.