City of Tampa Celebrates Opening of Mercy Oaks II, Expanding Affordable Housing Options
The City of Tampa will join Catholic Charities and community partners today to celebrate the grand opening of Mercy Oaks II Apartments, 17 new affordable units that will provide homes for individuals and families experiencing or at risk of homelessness.
Located along N. Florida Avenue, Mercy Oaks II is a shining example of adaptive reuse of a strip commercial center as affordable housing. The City of Tampa contributed $1.25 million in state SHIP funds toward the acquisition of the land, helping make the redevelopment possible. Additional funding was provided through Catholic Charities and a loan from Catholic Charities USA. The apartments are adjacent to Mercy Oaks I, a 20-unit apartment complex built in 2022 through a partnership between Hillsborough County and Catholic Charities.
"Every new affordable home we create represents an opportunity for someone to build a more stable future," said Mayor Jane Castor. "Mercy Oaks II is another example of what strong partnerships can accomplish when we work together to expand housing opportunities for Tampa residents who need them most. We're proud to partner with Catholic Charities on this important investment in our community."
Mercy Oaks II consists of 15 one-bedroom units and two two-bedroom units. Seven apartments are reserved for households earning up to 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI) ($73,400 for a family of two), while ten apartments are reserved for households earning up to 50% AMI ($45,850 for a family of two), ensuring the development serves residents with the greatest housing needs.
The apartments will serve individuals who are homeless or at risk of homelessness, including survivors of domestic violence, sexual assault, human trafficking, and other vulnerable populations.
Residents will have access to quality housing with below-market rents, while water, sewer, and trash services are included. Each apartment is equipped with a refrigerator, range, and dishwasher to help residents establish a comfortable home.
"Thanks to this partnership with the City of Tampa, Mercy Oaks II will allow Catholic Charities to provide permanent housing to individuals and families who are either homeless presently, including some from our Tampa Hope shelter, or at risk of being homelessness," said Catholic Charities Executive Director Maggie Rogers.
Expanding affordable housing remains a top priority for the City of Tampa as it works with nonprofit organizations, private developers, and community partners to increase housing choices for residents across all income levels.
The opening of Mercy Oaks II reflects the City's continued commitment to investing in projects that strengthen neighborhoods, reduce housing insecurity, and create pathways to long-term stability for Tampa residents.