Bilirakis receives Congressional Champion Award
WASHINGTON, D.C. – The National Community Development Association recognized U.S. Rep. Gus Bilirakis (R-FL) recently with the Congressional Champion Award for championing community development programs, such as the Community Development Block Grant program.
Bilirakis received the award earlier this month during NCDA’s Winter Legislative, Policy and Professional Development Meeting in Washington, D.C.
“It is truly an honor to receive this Congressional Champion Award from the National Community Development Association, a strong group of talented professionals that work tirelessly to maximize federal resources and support thriving, sustainable and affordable communities throughout the country,” said Congressman Bilirakis. “Together, we are working in a collaborative manner to help seniors, veterans, and other vulnerable populations. I will never stop fighting for Americans who need assistance. Our voices are stronger together!”
Operation Patriot gets $1,800 boost
The GFWC Lutz- Land O’ Lakes Womans Club Civic Engagement CSP presented a check for $1,800 to Operation Patriot, a not-for-profit organization that provides programs for veterans at the Bandolero Lopez Veterans Home. These funds were raised at the Tombola booth at the annual Arts and Crafts show held in December.
Food pantry faces eviction
LAND O’ LAKES – Father and Son Love Free Food Pantry is facing imminent eviction due to financial struggles in meeting its $8,000 monthly rent and utility payments.
Without urgent support, the ministry could be forced to close its doors, leaving many without access to essential food, support and encouragement.
For six-plus years, the pantry has been providing groceries, meals, clothing, prayer and resources to those who need them most. Clients include veterans, seniors, families and the homeless.
“We have always believed that love in action can transform lives,” said Pastor CJ Johns, founder of the pantry. “Now, we need the community’s love and action to help us keep these doors open for the remaining four months of their lease.”
Immediate financial assistance is needed to cover rent and utilities. Ongoing support will ensure outreach continues in the months ahead.
Checks can be sent to 21418 Carson Drive Land O Lakes Florida, 34639. Email fatherandsonffp@gmail.com for in-person donations, sponsorship inquiries or other ways to donate.
On the web: fatherandsonfreefoodpantry.org
PHSC providing Financial Fitness
WESLEY CHAPEL – Pasco Hernando State College will host a Financial Fitness workshop that will explain how to achieve financial goals, focusing on homeownership and economic stability.
The workshop will be held from 11:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. March 26 at the PHSC Porter Campus at Wiregrass Ranch Conference Center, 2727 Mansfield Blvd. The event is open to the public and free with lunch provided, sponsored by The Copeland Team.
Community vendors will be on-site, offering information about various programs available to support individuals in Pasco and Hernando counties during transitional periods, ranging from safety shelters to down payment assistance.
On the web: phsc.edu/about/events/campus/community-awareness-series-financial-fitness
Hernando County OK’s Habitat development
SPRING HILL – The Hernando County Board of County Commissioners approved Habitat for Humanity Tampa Bay Gulfside’s proposal to build 30 affordable single-family homes on a 9.5-acre lot at Miracle Drive and Century Drive.
Hernando County is donating the 9.5 acres to Habitat.
The homes that will be built by Habitat on this 9.5-acre lot will be sold to partner families that complete the Habitat Homeownership program, which consists of 38 homebuyer education classes and putting in 350 to 450 sweat equity hours on Habitat construction sites. The average sales price for these homes is expected to be $250,000.
Habitat Tampa Bay Gulfside was awarded Hernando County by Habitat for Humanity International in April 2024. This expanded the affiliate’s services from Pinellas and West Pasco counties to include Hernando County, prompting a name change and rebranding.
Tax collector’s office had notable 2024
TAMPA – The Hillsborough County Tax Collector’s Office has released its Fiscal Year 2024 Annual Report.
In FY2024, the office served over one million customers in branch offices while maintaining a 93.9% overall customer satisfaction rating and a 4.87 Google Review rating. The office returned $29.5 million in excess (unused) fees to Hillsborough County and other taxing authorities.
“This comprehensive report demonstrates our commitment to transparency, efficiency, and exceptional service,” said Tax Collector Nancy Millan. “Throughout 2024, our office achieved significant milestones while successfully navigating challenges, showcasing our resilience through enhanced technology and expanded community outreach programs. These improvements have strengthened public trust and service delivery.”
Read the annual report at hillstax.org and get more insight from Millan at https://www.hillstax.org/state-of-the-organization.
HART partners with transit app
TAMPA – The Hillsborough Transit Authority announced a new benefit for customers: free access to Transit Royale, the premium service available in the Transit app.
HART recently transitioned to the Transit App for customer-facing real-time travel information. The agency previously developed OneBusAway Tampa, the agency’s longtime real-time information application.
The upgrade provides expanded route maps, full departure schedules, real-time vehicle tracking, and step-by-step trip guidance – all at no cost.
“We’re always looking to improve the customer experience,” HART CEO Scott Drainville said. “By offering Transit Royale for free, we’re giving customers the best tools to plan their trips with confidence and provide immediate feedback on the go.”
On the web: goHART.org
