New homes, new lives

TAMPA - Less than a year ago, "The Sanctuary" was just a dream on paper. Now, thanks to The City of Tampa and the goodwill of more than a dozen companies, twelve formerly homeless families will have a place to call home.

"I just want to say a strong 'thank you' for such an amazing gift, The Sanctuary," said Blu Jamison, who will be one of the first residents there.

It's a 2.3 million dollar project to build affordable town homes on Waters Avenue. The brand new homes are two, three and four bedroom town houses. Some are already furnished thanks to donations from local companies.

Families will pay rent and utilities depending on their income.

"It gives a place where families can care for each other and move forward in their goal to be totally independent," said Tim Marks, CEO of Metropolitan Ministries.

Metropolitan Ministries estimates nearly 10,000 people are homeless in Hillsborough County. Children make up 16 percent of that estimate. The project helps give hope to those who may be down on their luck.

"This says, 'here, this is how you're going to make it another day and this is how you're going to put one foot in front of another and make your life better and raise your children and make their life better'," according to Tampa Mayor Pam Iorio.

Even in tough economic times, nearly a dozen companies were generous enough to donate their time and materials.

"Once we saw the momentum building and the material being donated, we were really excited and we had the people inside the company that wanted to help out too, so it worked out really nice," added Bob Hope of Tar Heel Roofing.

"I am so grateful for The Sanctuary and for all of you that made this possible for me and all of the families that are blessed to call The Sanctuary home," announced Jamison at the ribbon cutting ceremony.

For 12 families, the town houses are more than homes, they're a chance to start a new life.