On the morning of Friday, June 13th, Clearwater witnessed something truly remarkable.
A quiet street in the Longlake Preserve neighborhood came alive with music, applause, and emotion as eleven families turned the key to a new chapter of their lives. Friends, elected officials, community leaders, and supporters gathered to witness something far greater than just the opening of doors—it was the opening of opportunity, stability, and legacy.
Hosted by Habitat for Humanity Tampa Bay Gulfside, the block party-style dedication honored the latest milestone in a bold, five-phase vision: a 54-home community made up of 52 townhomes and two single-family homes, all reserved for Habitat Homeowner Families. Friday’s celebration welcomed the newest 11 homeowners—each of whom had completed 350 to 450 sweat equity hours and 38 homeownership education classes in preparation for this moment.
Laughter echoed in the streets as families explored their new townhomes— spaces that will now hold birthdays, study sessions, dinners, and dreams.Thanks to Habitat’s 0% APR mortgage model, these dreams are built on a foundation of affordability and empowerment.
“This is more than just a neighborhood—it’s a movement,” said Mike Sutton, President & CEO of Habitat for Humanity Tampa Bay Gulfside. “The families are so ready to have a secure environment that will allow them to begin this next chapter of life, filled with joy, love, and peace of mind.”
It was a celebration made possible by powerful partnerships. Home sponsors such as KAM Roofing, Lokey Charities, MaintenX, MarineMax, and Power Design stood alongside families they helped support. Public leaders including State Senator Ed Hooper and State Representative Kim Berfield were recognized for securing $2 million from the 2023–24 state budget, helping fund this remarkable project. Longlake Preserve also became the first Habitat development to benefit from Penny for Pinellas.
This community didn’t just happen—it was built through local collaborations and the belief that everyone deserves a place to call home.
If you’ve ever wondered what hope looks like, it looks like kids picking their bedrooms and neighbors hugging beneath banners that read Welcome Home.
If you want to be part of that hope, Habitat for Humanity Tampa Bay Gulfside is always in need of volunteers. Whether swinging a hammer or lending a hand at events like these, your time and energy can directly impact the lives in our community.
Building homes is just the beginning. What Habitat for Humanity is truly building… is futures.
