Soon there will be more affordable housing in East Hillsborough for low-income seniors. On December 19, the Casa di Francesco housing complex broke ground in East Hillsborough. The four-story complex will contain 140 rental apartments – 100 one-bedroom units and 40 two-bedroom units, specifically tailored to the elderly population in Seffner. The housing complex is being built on land owned by St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church.
Working together to help the local population
Developed by Blue Sky Communities, the project is expected to be completed in early 2025. The apartments will be a 62+ affordable senior living community.
“Why senior affordable apartments? As we all know, there is a crisis in the housing industry that we are facing all around the country,” says Father Father Edison Bernabas, pastor at St. Francis of Assisi.
“Think about the situation of so many people, who after having worked hard all of their lives, still don’t have access to decent housing. We are committed to helping seniors obtain decent housing and these 140 apartments are a solid step towards reaching that goal.”
Hillsborough County Commissioner, Harry Cohen also gave some remarks noting the County’s contribution and that, “This is an excellent example of what we can
achieve when we all work together.”
Hillsborough County also helped provide $6.1 million in funding for the project.
Apartment amenities
Management in the apartment complex will provide the residents with a list of qualified service providers for light housekeeping, grocery shopping, or laundry services and coordinate scheduling for them. Property management support will be accessible 24 hours per day, seven days a week. Therefore, any maintenance, security, or health-related issues that may arise will be handled appropriately and efficiently.
Applications will go live on the Casa Di Francesco website after construction begins. Seniors’ applications will be considered on a first-come, first-served basis. The community has no religious residency requirements but does offer easy access to the church for interested residents.
Amenities will include a clubhouse with a craft room, exercise room, and a library. There will be ample green space to include a walking trail, picnic area, and community garden. The building will be easily accessible with two elevators, surface parking, and is conveniently located next to a public parking complex.
Units will also be available for those earning below 60 percent of the area median income. Blue Sky Communities and Catholic Charities will partner to provide programs and community amenities. This includes things like on-site weekly literacy lessons. There will also be an optional Resident Assurance Check-in Program. It will offer daily check-ins on a pre-determined basis at no cost to residents.
