University Area CDC and AdventHealth partnership expands housing and wellness opportunities for Tampa Bay veterans

More veterans in the Tampa Bay area will soon have access to safe, stable housing and important health and wellness resources through a new partnership between University Area CDC (Community Development Corporation) and AdventHealth.

The collaboration will strengthen University Area CDC’s Rehab to Restore Hope, a veteran housing program which transforms properties in the University Area into affordable, sustainable homes for veterans and their families.

Learn more about the University Area CDC's plans for the future of this program on 10 Tampa Bay

Leaders from University Area CDC, AdventHealth and local government, including delegates from the offices of Representative Susan Valdéz, Representative Fentrice Driskell, Representative Danny Alvarez and Senator Darryl Rouson, joined veteran residents for a tour of the current Rehab to Restore Hope housing units, highlighting how access to stable housing directly influences physical and emotional health.

“At the University Area CDC, we believe that a home is the first step toward stability and dignity,” said Arturo Puckerin, MPA, executive director & CEO of the University Area CDC. “Partnering with AdventHealth allows us to reach more veterans who deserve not only a roof over their heads, but also the support and resources that help them thrive.”

Glen Johnson is a veteran who fell on hard times and was homeless after retiring from the Marines. He was connected with the University Area CDC and has lived in one of their two veteran apartments for a few years.

"It's going great so far," Johnson said. "I hope it continues."

“When we learned about University Area CDC’s Rehab to Restore Hope program, we saw an organization that understands that stable housing is directly tied to better health outcomes,” Erik Wangsness, president/CEO of AdventHealth Tampa, said. "If people have a safe place to call home, they can focus on their well-being, connect with others, find purpose and start building toward their future. That’s the kind of work AdventHealth is excited to stand behind.”

The University Area CDC serves residents in Tampa’s 33612 and 33613 ZIP codes through programs that include housing, workforce development, education, family support and health and wellness initiatives. Together, University Area CDC and AdventHealth are working toward a shared vision of healthier, more connected communities by addressing the social factors that influence health outcomes.