The City of Tampa Joins Tampa Hope Homeless Shelter in Opening a New Community Center News General, News Mayor Office Tampa Hope will open its Matthew 25 Community Center, just[...]

Tampa Hope will open its Matthew 25 Community Center, just one year after breaking ground. The center will be a focal point of the shelter, providing clients with showers, laundry facilities, restrooms, and a professional-grade kitchen.

Catholic Charities has worked with the City of Tampa for three-and-a-half years to fund and build resources that have benefitted hundreds of men and women. The nonprofit currently has 91 tents and 100 cottages. Since its launch in 2022, Tampa Hope has served more than 1,550 clients, and has placed 563 in housing after their stay. The 7,000 square foot community center was made possible by a gift from one of the shelter's lead donors, Mr. and Mrs. Drew and Susan Peloubet.

"The opening of the Matthew 25 Community Center represents the very best of what our city can achieve when compassion meets action," said Mayor Jane Castor. "This center is more than just a building-it's a beacon of hope and dignity for those in need. I'm deeply grateful to Drew and Susan Peloubet for their generosity, and to Catholic Charities for their unwavering commitment to serving Tampa's most vulnerable. Together, we are building a stronger, more caring community for all."

Located on the six acres owned by Catholic Charities east of Ybor City, the center will provide permanent facilities to support clients as they move to permanent, stable housing. Its name is a nod to Matthew 25 from the Bible, which alludes to bettering one's life and offering compassionate service to the poor and vulnerable in need.

"The Matthew 25 Community Center is yet another step in our effort to continually provide the best care possible to our clients," said Maggie Rogers, Catholic Charities Executive Director. "We are grateful to Drew and Susan for their commitment to our mission to help the homeless of Tampa."

Since its opening in December 2021, Tampa Hope has served men and women ranging in age from 18 to 60+, with the average length of stay around 90 days. In 2024 alone, the facility served 479 clients. Services provided include three daily meals, toiletries, clothing, medical care, life skills and financial management classes, and substance abuse and mental health treatment.