Leon County Housewarming Ceremony Welcomes Family Home

Last week, Leon County Government welcomed another family to their new home during a Homeownership Development Program Housewarming Ceremony. During the ceremony, the family participated in a ceremonial ribbon cutting and received housewarming gifts to help them settle in. The home was built through the Leon County Division of Housing Services Homeownership Development Program with financing from the County’s annual State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) allocation.

“For the second time this month, we are thrilled to welcome a Leon County family to their new home through our Homeownership Development Program,” said Leon County Commission Chairman Brian Welch. “Because of our strong partnership with the State Housing Initiatives Partnership program, we are able to create more affordable homeownership opportunities in our community and make a real difference in the lives of Leon County families.”

The Leon County Homeownership Development Program is designed to provide funding to for-profit and not-for-profit organizations for the development of homes for low-income, first-time homebuyers. The program is one of Leon County Government’s strategies to grow the inventory of affordable housing in Leon County.

As Leon County Commission Vice Chairman Christian Caban shared in the program, “We are excited to welcome this family to their new home, where they will make memories that last a lifetime. Our Homeownership Development Program project exemplifies the County’s ongoing commitment to expanding access to affordable housing and fostering homeownership opportunities right here in our community.”

In addition to the Homeownership Development Program, the County’s SHIP allocation supports Leon County Division of Housing Services programs including down payment assistance for first time homebuyers and housing repair, rehabilitation, and replacement.

“It fills me with much pride to welcome this family to their new home on the Southside,” said Leon County District 1 Commissioner Bill Proctor. “Safe, affordable housing is the foundation of a strong community, and homeownership provides the building blocks for a brighter future and generational wealth for families like this one.”

The Leon County Division of Housing Services is committed to providing safe, sanitary, and affordable housing to low-income residents in the unincorporated areas of Leon County. The Division of Housing Services reviews applications, verifies applicant eligibility, and ensures compliance with the SHIP program and other related programs.

“Collaboration with our valued partners and the diligent work of the County Housing team are critical to bringing affordable housing projects to life,” said Leon County Administrator Vincent S. Long. “Through our Homeownership Development Program, Leon County is expanding affordable housing options and building a stronger future for the entire community.”

“A new home is a new chapter, and my story is just the beginning!” said homeowner Ayaunni Harris. “I would like to thank County staff for all the help and the professionalism in which they conducted business with the Homeownership Development Program. Thank you for all you’ve done.”

For more information, contact Leon County Community and Media Relations at (850) 606-5300 / CMR@LeonCountyFL.gov.

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Homeowner Ayaunni Harris (center) cuts the ribbon on her new home which was funded through the Leon County Homeownership Development Program.

Leon County Commission Vice Chairman Christian Caban speaks during the Homeownership Development Program Housewarming Ceremony.

District 1 Commissioner Bill Proctor speaks during the Homeownership Development Program Housewarming Ceremony.