Pinellas renews rapid-rehousing contracts and funds emergency assistance programs

The board approved a five-year emergency financial assistance agreement with Kempe Bay Cares ($7.2 million) and renewed rapid rehousing contracts with Saint Vincent de Paul Cares and 211 Tampa Bay, together totaling about $3.4 million. County staff described the agreements as renewals and essential components of regional efforts to end homelessness.

Michael Raposa, CEO of Saint Vincent de Paul Cares, told commissioners the rapid-housing collaboration—active since 2017—has housed 793 households and achieved an 81% success rate for those clients, including significant work with families and survivors of domestic violence. Helen Rimes (City of St. Petersburg) thanked the board for the county partnership and said the city budget also includes funds to continue collaboration. Commissioners acknowledged the success but asked for a future work session to define program goals and reduce duplication across jurisdictions.