WEST REGION
$2.485 million FCLF loan
Construction and permanent financing
23 affordable homes for veterans

3rd Veterans Property Land Trust was created in 2020 with a goal to create an affordable veterans community in Pinellas County. When suitable property was identified, the group purchased a 1.9-acre parcel, with plans to add 23 new, affordable housing units for veterans. The site contains buildings that will remain intact or be renovated and re-purposed – including a church, office and meeting space, and an existing single-family home. The property is in an area of Pinellas Park that is targeted for redevelopment.

With financing from Florida Community Loan Fund, 3rd Veterans purchased the property and is creating Victory Light, a community where there are individual residences for veterans, including homeless veterans, who participate in the VASH program (Veterans Affairs Supportive Housing). VASH combines rental assistance vouchers with case management and clinical services; at this location. Always Able, Inc. will provide counseling, job readiness and placement, transportation support, assistance accessing VA benefits, and a 24-hour crisis line. Rent will be very affordable – starting at under $1,000 for a yearly lease – and veterans can use VASH housing choice vouchers.

The homes will be created from 40-foot shipping containers, which are being manufactured by Container Solutions The containers are delivered with windows installed to the project site, where they are finished on the property with insulation, French doors, plumbing, electrical and lighting, appliances, and all cabinetry. The container homes are hurricane resistant (180 mph wind) and meet all local and state building codes. The property is within walking distance to shopping and retail.

This project with 3rd Veterans Property Land Trust helps address the lack of affordable housing in Florida, and helps veterans who may otherwise be homeless. It incorporates container housing which is emerging as a new, proven method to create affordable homes. FCLF received a JPMorgan Chase grant to explore innovative methods of providing affordable housing, which led to this project.

Pictured: the foundations for new, affordable housing from 3rd Veterans Property Land Trust