Founded in 1972, Metropolitan Ministries is a leading provider of homeless services in Hillsborough, Pinellas, and Pasco Counties, serving over 100,000 families annually. Many of these families are either homeless or on the brink due to a lack of affordable housing and the prevalence of low-paying jobs. This combination leaves 45% of households unable to afford basic needs, just one emergency away from homelessness. Metropolitan Ministries was founded when 13 area churches joined together to create a single organization to increase efficiency, eliminate duplication of services, and meet the growing needs of the homeless community.

With financing through the NMTC program, Metropolitan Ministries expanded its existing campus in Holiday, FL with approximately 43,000 sq. ft. of new facility space, including construction of 3 new buildings and expansion of an existing building.

The MiraclePlace Pasco project addresses shelter and housing needs for families and single women, seeking to prevent homelessness and stabilize families by equipping them with tools to overcome barriers to self-sufficiency. The project includes 24 residential units, early childhood and after-school education programs, a support center with services and resources, and a kitchen / dining space that also offers fresh produce and clothing for community members in need. An on-site program provides workforce training and job placement.

Without the NMTC, the project’s completion would have been delayed as other funding comes in. This is FCLF’s third NMTC project with Metropolitan Ministries through a partnership that dates back to 2012. Florida Community Loan Fund provided $13 million in NMTCs for the MiraclePlace Pasco project, with additional NMTCs provided by Chase New Markets Corporation and The Reinvestment Fund, Inc. FCLF also provided $3.7 million financing through its community development loan program.