February 2026 Newsletter
Message from the Executive Director
As we reflect on this our Winter edition, the Hialeah Housing Authority (HHA) is filled with gratitude and optimism for the future of our community.
We are proud to welcome Bryan Calvo as he begins his term as the City of Hialeah's new Mayor. As the youngest mayor in the city's history, Mayor Calvo represents a new generation of leadership rooted in service, innovation, and community. We look forward to working collaboratively with his administration to strengthen neighborhoods, expand opportunity, and enhance the quality of life for Hialeah residents.
For decades, HHA has gone beyond housing, delivering resident services, supportive programs, and community initiatives that promote stability, wellbeing, and opportunity. This Winter also marked an important milestone with the launch of HHA Development Inc. - Open Doors, the philanthropic arm of the Hialeah Housing Authority, created to complement and strengthen this work through partnerships and community investment. Guided by four core focus areas: Housing & Stability, Community & Wellbeing, Growth & Opportunity, and Economic Mobility, the Foundation supports families and seniors through housing access, supportive services, education, workforce development, and pathways to long-term self-sufficiency.
The Foundation's inaugural fundraising campaign exceeded expectations, raising more than $70,000, thanks to the generosity of community partners and supporters. This early success reinforces the value of public-private collaboration in advancing opportunities and improving outcomes for HHA residents.
As we move forward, the Hialeah Housing Authority remains committed to collaboration, transparency, and service, working alongside city leadership, community partners, and residents to build a stronger, more resilient Hialeah.
Historic Inauguration Marks a New Chapter for the City of Hialeah - January 12, 2026
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On January 12, 2026, the City of Hialeah reached a significant milestone as Bryan Calvo was officially sworn in, ushering in a new era of leadership for our community. His inauguration marks not only the beginning of a new administration, but also a historic achievement, as Mayor Calvo becomes the youngest mayor ever elected to lead the City of Hialeah.
A lifelong Hialeah resident, Mayor Calvo's journey is deeply rooted in the community he now serves. From attending local schools to earning his degree from Harvard University and building a career in public service and law, his path reflects dedication, discipline, and a strong commitment to civic responsibility.
In his inaugural remarks, Mayor Calvo emphasized integrity, reform, and progress, outlining a vision centered on transparency, accountability, and meaningful results for residents. His leadership arrives at a pivotal moment, as Hialeah continues to grow while honoring its rich history and cultural identity.
The residents of the Hialeah Housing Authority congratulate Mayor Bryan Calvo on this historic achievement and look forward to working collaboratively with his administration to expand opportunities, strengthen neighborhoods, and enhance the quality of life for Hialeah families.
Hialeah Housing Authority Commissioners
Maida Gutiérrez - Chairwoman
Barbara (Barbie) Hernández - Vice-Chairwoman
Clara G. Rodruigez - Commissioner
Adriana López Pérez - Commissioner
David Pérez - Commissioner
Abdel Jiménez - Commissioner
2026 Important Dates
- February 14, 2026 - Valentine's Day
- February 16, 2026 - Presidents' Day, HHA Offices Closed
- March 17, 2026 - St. Patrick's Day
- April 3, 2026 - Good Friday, HHA Offices Closed
- April 5, 2026 - Easter
HHA in the Community
New Year's Elderly Celebration and Welcome to Mayor Bryan Calvo - January 15, 2026
HHA welcomed the new year with a joyful celebration for our senior residents, which also marked the first visit of newly inaugurated Mayor Bryan Calvo to our elderly communities.
The gathering offered a meaningful opportunity for residents to welcome the Mayor while enjoying music, fellowship, and a hopeful start to the year. We look forward to continued collaboration in support of Hialeah's seniors and families.
For pictures from the New Year's celebration, click here.
Halloween Elderly Celebration - A Festive Afternoon of Community and Joy
On October 23, 2025, the Hialeah Housing Authority, in collaboration with the City of Hialeah, hosted a Halloween Celebration for our senior residents. The festive afternoon featured music, seasonal treats, a costume contest, and a joyful atmosphere of friendship and community. The event was attended by Jacqueline Garcia-Roves, Mayor of the City of Hialeah; Dariel Fernandez, Miami-Dade County Tax Collector; Monica Perez, Miami-Dade County Commissioner; and Juan Junco, City of Hialeah Councilman, reflecting the strong partnership between HHA and city leadership in support of our elderly residents.
For pictures from the Halloween Elderly Celebration, click here.
Landlord Summit 2025 - Strengthening Partnership and Housing Stability
On October 16, 2025, the Hialeah Housing Authority hosted its Annual Landlord Summit, bringing together landlords and housing partners committed to providing safe, affordable housing. The Summit highlighted important HUD program updates and provided an opportunity for attendees to meet and connect with HHA's Section 8 staff. We extend our sincere appreciation to our landlords for their continued partnership and commitment to HHA families. Together, we are strengthening housing stability and building stronger communities across Hialeah.
For pictures from the 2025 Landlord Summit, click here.
Community Health Fair - Promoting Wellness and Access to Care
On October 22, 2025, the Hialeah Chamber of Commerce, in partnership with the Hialeah Housing Authority and the City of Hialeah, hosted a Community Health Fair for our senior residents, connecting them with essential health screenings, community resources, and preventive care services. The event also featured raffles, wellness education, and support services designed to help seniors stay informed, healthy, and engaged.
The Health Fair was further enhanced by the presence of La Poderosa Radio Station, which broadcast live from the event, helping amplify the importance of health awareness and community engagement. We extend our sincere appreciation to our healthcare partners, community agencies, the City of Hialeah, La Poderosa, and dedicated volunteers for helping ensure our residents have access to quality care and resources that support better health outcomes and a stronger community.
For pictures from the Community Health Fair, click here.
Thanksgiving Elderly Celebration - Honoring Gratitude and Togetherness
On November 13, 2025, the Hialeah Housing Authority and the City of Hialeah hosted a Thanksgiving Celebration for our elderly residents, bringing the community together for an afternoon of fellowship, music, and gratitude. The event was led by Julio Ponce, Executive Director of the Hialeah Housing Authority, and was honored by the presence of Jacqueline Garcia-Roves, Mayor of the City of Hialeah; Juan Fernandez-Barquin, Clerk of the Circuit Court and Comptroller for Miami-Dade County; and Alina Garcia, Miami-Dade County Supervisor of Elections. The celebration reflected HHA's continued commitment to the wellbeing of our senior residents and the strong partnerships that support our community.
For pictures from the Thanksgiving Elderly Celebration, click here.
Thanksgiving Drive - Serving Families with Gratitude
On November 17, 2025, the Hialeah Housing Authority, together with our community partners, proudly hosted our Annual Thanksgiving Drive to support seniors and families across our housing communities. This year's drive was further strengthened by the launch of HHA Development Foundation's first community fundraising initiative, which helped expand the reach and impact of this longstanding tradition.
Through these combined efforts, we distributed 1,800 holiday meals, ensuring that our residents were able to celebrate the Thanksgiving season with dignity, hope, and joy. We extend special thanks to Leon Medical Centers, our Champion Sponsor, whose generous contribution of $15,000 played a critical role in providing Thanksgiving meals for our elderly residents.
Champion Sponsor Recognition:
- Leon Medical Centers is recognized as a Champion Sponsor for their leadership and commitment to the wellbeing of HHA's senior residents.
This event reflects our ongoing commitment to serving those we are entrusted to support and to strengthening the spirit of compassion and unity across our community. We extend our sincere gratitude to our partners, donors, and volunteers whose generosity and support made this meaningful tradition possible.
For pictures from the Thanksgiving drive, click here.
Annual Christmas Toy Drive - Bringing Joy to Our Children
On December 10, 2025, the Hialeah Housing Authority, together with HHA Development Foundation, hosted its Annual Christmas Toy Drive, spreading holiday cheer to children and families across our communities. Thanks to the generosity of our partners and donors, more than 400 toys were distributed to children ages 0-12, creating smiles, excitement, and unforgettable holiday memories.
We extend special thanks to NBC 6 / Telemundo 51, Mount Sinai Medical Center, Marine Corps Reserve, Toys for Tots, and Share Your Heart for their generous support as Community Champion donors, with Share Your Heart also contributing over 250 food bags to further support families during the holiday season. We are also grateful to the landlords, community partners, and donors who stepped forward to support this growing, community-driven effort through HHA Development Foundation.
Moments like these highlight the power of community, compassion, and the true spirit of giving. We sincerely thank everyone who contributed their time, resources, and support to make this meaningful holiday tradition a success for our families
A Message from Executive Director Julio Ponce
"On behalf of the Hialeah Housing Authority and HHA Development, I want to express my heartfelt gratitude to every donor, partner, landlord, and community member who made this year's Holiday Drive possible. Your generosity ensured that families across our communities sat down to a warm holiday meal, children opened gifts with excitement, and our residents felt seen, supported, and cared for during a time that can be difficult for many. You reminded us that when a community comes together, we do more than provide resources - we create belonging. Thank you for opening doors, uplifting our families, and standing with us in our mission to strengthen the lives of the residents we serve. We are deeply grateful for your partnership and look forward to continuing this important work together throughout the year."
For pictures from the Annual Christmas Toy Drive, click here
Celebrating Commissioner Fara Alvarez
We proudly celebrated the birthday of our beloved Commissioner Fara Alvarez on December 7 at the Vivian Villas lunchroom. A resident of Vivian Villas for more than 39 years, Commissioner Fara has dedicated her life to serving others and advocating for our community. Her leadership, compassion, and unwavering commitment continue to inspire generations. We are deeply grateful for her lifelong service and dedication to the Hialeah community.
For pictures from Fara Alvarez' birthday celebration, click here.
Thank You to Our Holiday Giving Partners
Together, you opened doors and filled homes with hope, meals and joy.
This holiday season, our community came together to make sure families in our residential communities did not face the holidays alone. Thanks to the generosity of our partners, neighbors, and friends, we raised over $71,100.00, provided more than 1,800 holiday meals, and delivered over 400 toys to children and residents across our HHA communities. To every donor listed below: thank you for helping us open doors, lift spirits, and spread joy.
Sponsor Tier Recognition
- Champion Sponsor ($5,000+)
- Leon Medical Centers
- Michael D. Wohl
- Senator René Garcia
- Thornton Construction
- Share you Heat/Victor for Youth
- Legacy Partner ($2,500)
- Mount Sinai Medical Center
- NBC 6/Telemundo 51
- Marine Corps Reserve - Toys for Tots
- Neighborhood Champion ($1000)
- Gus Machado Ford
- Bessolo Design Group
- Crystal Clear Holding LLC
- Cunaro Builders Corp
- Irem Properties
- Las Mercedes
- Community Supporter ($500)
- A Flag and Flagpole Co.
- Barcelona Investment, Inc.
- Delphil Corp.
- D. L. Morgan and Associates
- Future Growth Investment LLC
- Hialeah Municipal Employees FCU
- INC Baywatch Apartments
- Rivero Investment Properties LLC
- Sergio Donikian Contractors
- Community Coalition NC
- Latin Builders Associations
- Local Partner ($250)
