TAMPA - New Life Village broke ground on 16 new townhomes in Tampa Wednesday. 

Since 2012, the community has been providing relief to families who have been impacted by the foster care and affordable housing crisis. 


What You Need To Know

  • New Life Village broke ground on 16 new townhomes in Tampa Wednesday

  • The community has been providing relief to families who have been impacted by the foster care and affordable housing crisis since 2012

  • The 12-acre campus is equiped with amenities, which include a pool, playground and garden

Antonia Robles said when her family was struggling, she found a welcoming community in New Life Village. 

The three-bedroom, two-and-a-half bath townhome where she currently lives is her second lease in this community. 

At 52 years old, she and her husband are raising four of their grandchildren. 

"I call us a tribe of six," Robles said with a chuckle. "It works." 

She said she passed the community by chance when it was in its initial stages of development. 

"It's a unique community," Robles said. "Definitely not seen a place like this."

Families that live in New Life Village share a unique bond from the struggle of the foster care system. 

Other families will have the same opportunity with affordable housing as New Life Village expands. 

That is why many were excited to see shovels break ground Wednesday for 16 new townhomes. 

Mariah Hayden, executive director of the 12-acre campus, said New Life Village comes equipped with amenities like a pool, playground and garden. 

The affordable housing community also works to provide mental and emotional support to families. 

"This is a community where children aren't stigmatized for being adopted," Hayden said. "It's normal for them — they all get to heal and grow together." 

Hayden said the village is funded with contributions and grants that allow the community continue to build upon what has already been started. 

"All of us are responsible for these kids — all of us are responsible for helping them get the resources they need," she added, quoting New Life Village's motto: "It takes a village to raise a child."