Habitat Pinellas and West Pasco Secures $2 Million in State Funding for Affordable Homeownership

Clearwater, FL – Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco Counties is excited to announce the successful procurement of $2,000,000 direct appropriation in the state's budget for affordable homeownership. This milestone signifies a significant step toward addressing the urgent need for safe and affordable housing within Pinellas and West Pasco Counties. Habitat partnered with Johnston & Stewart Government Strategies to successfully secure funding in this year's budget.

Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco Counties extends its heartfelt appreciation and gratitude to Governor Ron DeSantis for signing the budget, which includes this vital $2 million state funding allocation for affordable homeownership. Governor DeSantis' steadfast support and recognition of the importance of affordable housing in our communities have been instrumental in enabling Habitat for Humanity to fulfill its mission. The immense gratitude is also extended to Senate Sponsor Senator Ed Hooper and House Sponsor Representative Kim Berfield, who fervently championed our cause in the state legislature and played an instrumental role in this achievement.

The funding will be instrumental in supporting the ambitious Achieving the Dream of Homeownership project, which aims to construct 92 affordable homeownership units across four subdivisions in Pinellas and Pasco Counties. This substantial investment will be allocated toward critical horizontal development activities, including infrastructure development, architectural design, civil engineering, and other associated expenses. Through this appropriation, Habitat for Humanity will be able to significantly impact on the lives of deserving families and contribute to the overall well-being of our community.

“We are overjoyed and deeply grateful for the $2 million state funding allocated to our Achieving the Dream of Homeownership project," expressed Mike Sutton, President & CEO of Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco Counties. "This remarkable achievement was made possible by the dogged dedication of Senator Ed Hooper, Representative Kim Berfield, and all members of the state legislature who championed affordable housing initiatives. We extend our heartfelt thanks to our committed supporters whose tireless efforts have brought us closer to our vision of ensuring everyone has a safe and decent place to call home."

As we move forward, Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco Counties remains determined in its mission to make homeownership dreams a reality for families in need. We extend our deepest appreciation to Governor Ron DeSantis for his support and partnership in creating a stronger, more inclusive community through affordable housing.

For media inquiries or further information, please contact: Morgan Brochetti at
(727) 536-4755, ext. 203.

Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas County and West Pasco Counties

Driven by the vision that everyone needs a decent place to live, Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco Counties has served over 800 homeowner partners since 1985. Over the last 12 months, Habitat Pinellas and West Pasco completed more new homes than any other affiliate in the country - earning a ranking of #1 producing affiliate in the network. Volunteers and the future homeowners construct the energy efficient homes, and candidates purchase the home with a 0% interest mortgage upon completing the program. Habitat homeowner candidates earn 30 to 80 percent of area median income. Candidates must demonstrate need for adequate shelter; ability to pay back a zero-interest loan and willingness to partner with Habitat to complete a robust homebuyer education curriculum and invest 350 to 450 “sweat equity” hours. Additionally, the affiliate raises funds through their ReStores; home improvement outlets where donated household and building items are sold to the public. For more information about Habitat for Humanity of Pinellas and West Pasco Counties, call (727) 536-4755 or visitwww.habitatpwp.org.