In both June and July, Love INC church and community partners came together with board chair Thad Bereday to speak out for affordable housing at the City of Tampa’s Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) meetings. The group gathered in support of Urban ReWorx’s catalytic development project planned for Nebraska Avenue — designed to bring hope and opportunity to East Tampa.
Church members and local advocates filled the chamber, voicing their passion for solutions that address the housing crisis. Among the speakers were April McCullohs of Grace Family Church, Jon Dengler of WellBuilt Cities, John Day of The Portico, and MJ, a Love INC Guest and Help Center volunteer. Each offered unique perspectives on how stable housing can transform lives and strengthen the community.
The proposed project, located on the long-neglected Nebraska Avenue corridor, will provide quality, community-based housing “built for locals, by locals.” Testimonies from the community emphasized that housing stability is foundational for restoring lives and neighborhoods.
One of the most moving moments came when Love INC’s Executive Director, Chalette Davis, addressed the council. Sharing personal stories from guests who have struggled with housing insecurity, she painted a vivid picture of both the challenges and the life-changing potential of accessible housing. Her words brought many in attendance to tears, underscoring the urgency of the need.
The advocacy efforts bore fruit when the CRA board approved $3.5M in funding for the Vicente Ybor House project, marking a victory for faith-led advocacy and community renewal. This milestone reflects what can be achieved when churches, nonprofits, and neighbors join forces to speak with one voice for justice and hope.
Love INC remains committed to advancing affordable housing initiatives and ensuring that every individual has the opportunity to flourish in a safe and stable home.
