WEST REGION
$5.3 million FCLF financing
60 homes for affordable rental housing

Data from 65 U.S. cities shows that the cost of keeping homeless people on the street is between $35,000 and $150,000 per person, per year. These costs, shouldered by county taxpayers, can be reduced by providing stable housing, along with supportive services, to homeless individuals and households.

Community Service Foundation seeks to alleviate homelessness by serving low-income families in Pinellas County with affordable housing, healthy living environments, training, and support services. Since 1979, CSF has helped families and individuals locate, secure, and maintain permanent, decent, affordable housing. Believing that “one size can’t fit all,” the organization customizes its services to needs of a particular neighborhood. To date, CSF has provided 109 rental homes for 380 Pinellas County residents; 37% of the households include a special needs member.

With financing from Florida Community Loan Fund, CSF purchased properties scattered across Pinellas, Pasco, and Hernando Counties, providing a total of 60 affordable rental homes for low-income and formerly homeless families. The neighborhoods will benefit from improved stability as formerly homeless individuals obtain permanent housing. CSF offers a variety of services for its residents, including financial and homebuyer education, crime prevention strategies and activities, mentoring and referrals to partner agencies. In 2020 FCLF also provided emergency working capital as part of its COVID-19 relief financing.

For more information visit www.csfhome.org
Learn more about CSF and their work in this article in the Tampa Bay Times.

Pictured, a multifamily rental property purchased by CSF.