HHA Newsletter: April 2025 - Volume 15
Message from the Executive Director
Dear Residents of the City of Hialeah,
On behalf of the Hialeah Housing Authority (HHA), we would like to express our sincerest gratitude to the Honorable Mayor Esteban Bovo for his leadership, dedication, and service to the community.
During his term, the Mayor worked tirelessly to improve the quality of life for our residents by making decisions together with the City Council that strengthened affordable housing, community programs, and family well-being initiatives in Hialeah.
Mayor Esteban Bovo's work has undoubtedly left a lasting legacy in our city through his public service, and we extend our best wishes for success in all his future endeavors.
In his place, we warmly welcome the President of the City Council, Jacqueline Garcia-Roves, as Interim Mayor. With her strong record of leadership and dedication to the residents of Hialeah, we look forward to working together to continue enhancing housing programs, community well-being, and the enjoyment of events for all.
At the same time, we extend our heartfelt thanks to all elected officials, community leaders, and Hialeah residents for their continuous help and unwavering support.
"We continue moving forward toward the progress and ongoing improvement of the City of Hialeah, so that we may live in a better environment each and every day."
Sincerely,
Julio Ponce
Executive Director
Mayor Esteban Bovo Jr. - Farewell Message to the Community
To the residents of Hialeah, for over 25 years I have had the honor and privilege to serve the residents of the City of Hialeah in various elected capacities. None more humbling than serving as your Mayor since 2021. I have often said that the American dream is alive and well and that Hialeah is a testament to what makes this country great. Many have come fleeing oppression and dictatorships and have demonstrated what one can accomplish when allowed to thrive and live free.
During my years of public services, I have worked diligently to honor the respect and support that the residents of our community have given me. We worked together on issues to improve the quality of life for everyone, from COVID, bridge openings, improved our park programing, repaired our neighborhood streets, added more first responders, while never raising the tax rate. Hialeah today is one of the safest cities in the United States. We have restored the pride of all those that collaborate to provide services to our residents as well as those who have come to invest and create opportunities.
I could not have served my beloved city if not for the sacrifice and love of my family. Their enthusiastic support has given me the strength and ability over the years to serve Hialeah, while allowing me at the same time to be grounded and fulfill my role as husband and father. It is now time to reciprocate their unselfish support.
I have full confidence in the city's administrative team we have built to guide the transition, as well as the talented members of the Hialeah City Council, whom I have had the honor of closely working with over the last four years. I will continue to be involved in the issues that affect our great City and look forward to seeing many of you during the upcoming Hialeah centennial celebration activities.
May God continue bless the City of Hialeah and of the residents that call it home.
Sincerely,
Esteban Bovo, Jr.
Mayor
Message From Our Interim Mayor Jacqueline Garcia-Roves
Dear Residents of Hialeah,
I am grateful for the opportunity to serve you in this capacity and embrace the responsibility with a strong commitment to the well-being and prosperity of the City of Hialeah. Hialeah has always been more than just a city to me, it is my home, my foundation, and the community that helped shape who I am.
My passion for public service stems from my father, a man whose relentless dedication to our city left a lasting impression on all who knew him. From a young age, I watched him dedicate his life to improving the lives of Hialeah's residents. It was through his leadership, his compassion, and his example that I found my own calling in public service. His legacy lives on in the values I carry with me every day.
Throughout my time as a public servant, my highest priority has always been to protect and enhance the quality of life for our residents. That responsibility does not change with my role as interim mayor. In fact, this opportunity allows me to strengthen my efforts and amplify your voices as we work together to continue shaping the future of this great city.
We are a city built on hard-working individuals, strong values, and deep community ties. Together, we've overcome challenges and achieved great things. As we move forward, I will continue to listen to your concerns, advocate for your needs, and fight for the progress we all want to see.
Thank you for your trust, your continued encouragement, and your belief in our shared mission to improve Hialeah for the betterment of our future. It is the honor of my life to serve you, and I look forward to all that we will accomplish together.
Sincerely,
Jacqueline Garcia-Roves
Interim Mayor
Exciting New Opportunities for Hialeah Housing Authority Residents and Community Partners
Dear Hialeah Housing Authority Residents, Program Beneficiaries, Future Donors, and Partners:
As we reflect on the challenges and triumphs of our beloved community, we recognize that housing continues to be one of the most pressing issues facing Hialeah, our county, and our state. Affordable, safe, and sustainable housing is a basic need for every family, yet many still struggle to find suitable living spaces. The impact of this crisis is far-reaching, affecting not only our residents but the entire fabric of our community.
For decades, the Hialeah Housing Authority (HHA) has been dedicated to serving families in need, providing a foundation for stability and growth. We are proud of the work we've done, but we also understand that there is much more to be done. That's why we are excited to announce the launch of HHA Development, a 501(c)(3) organization committed to addressing our community's housing challenges and expanding the opportunities available to our residents.
Through HHA Development, we aim to build new family and senior housing developments, create scholarships for high school students currently part of the HHA program to pursue higher education and trade school certifications, and foster partnerships with local businesses to provide job opportunities for our residents. With the help of generous donors and partners, we believe that we can create lasting change and a brighter future for Hialeah.
Our slogan, "Opens Doors", reflects the essence of what we are working towards-literally opening doors to new homes, career opportunities, scholarships, and so much more. This is a call to action for businesses, community organizations, and individuals who want to make a real difference. In the coming months, we will be reaching out to our partners to explore how they can be involved, whether through financial contributions, volunteering, or providing job opportunities to our residents. Together, we can build a stronger, more resilient community.
We are incredibly excited about this new chapter at HHA and the potential it holds for our residents and for the community at large. Your support will be crucial in helping us achieve our mission of opening doors to better housing, education, and employment opportunities. Together, we can transform lives and ensure that every resident has the opportunity to thrive.
Thank you for your continued support. We look forward to working with you as we build a brighter future for Hialeah and beyond.
HHA Development Foundation
Hialeah Housing Authority
HHA Elderly Services
The Recreational and Activities Program offers trips to various sites across South Florida, as well as pick-up and drop-off services for grocery shopping. Activities are available by reservation only. If you are interested in the program, please contact the Recreation and Activities Department at (305) 257-3502 or (305) 888-9744 Monday through Friday 8:30 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
HHA in the Community
HHA Unveils "Residences at Fifty Six Street" following exterior and common area renovations -
On January 28, the Hialeah Housing Authority (HHA) hosted a ribbon cutting ceremony to commemorate the official renaming and completion of major renovations to one of its long-standing residential properties. Now proudly known as Residences at Fifty Six Street, the community has been refreshed with improvements that enhance the overall living environment-while residents remained in place throughout the process.
The event brought together elected officials, community leaders, HHA staff, and residents to celebrate this milestone. Mayor Esteban Bovo Jr. served as the keynote speaker, joined by members of the HHA team and local leadership to recognize the significance of this project for the neighborhood.
The scope of work focused on the property's exterior and shared spaces. Enhancements included new impact-resistant windows, upgraded common areas, exterior painting, landscaping, and other improvements aimed at safety, functionality, and curb appeal. The renovation has greatly elevated the overall feel and presentation of the property.
HHA Executive Director Julio Ponce acknowledged the collaboration and coordination that went into completing the upgrades without disrupting residents' daily lives. The new name-Residences at Fifty Six Street-was unveiled as part of the event, symbolizing a renewed sense of identity and pride for the community.
Guests toured the improved spaces and gathered to celebrate the successful completion of the project. The event underscored HHA's ongoing mission to enhance public housing while preserving the comfort, dignity, and stability of the people it serves.
Click here to view event photos.
St. Valentine's Dance Party
On February 6, HHA kicked off the month with a heartwarming Valentine's Day celebration alongside our elderly community. Residents enjoyed a joyful afternoon filled with music, sweet treats, and heartfelt moments. The event was made even more special with the presence of local elected officials, who shared in the love and community spirit.
Event photos coming soon.
St. Patrick's Dance Party
On March 6, HHA hosted its monthly celebration with the elderly community, marking St. Patrick's Day with a festive gathering attended by local elected officials. Residents enjoyed an afternoon of fun, food, and lively green-themed festivities.
Event photos coming soon.
2025 Important Dates
May 1, 2025 - National Prayer
May 11, 2025 - Mother's Day
May 26, 2025 - Memorial Day - HHA Offices Closed
June 14, 2025 - Flag Day
June 15, 2025 - Father's Day
June 19, 2025 - Juneteenth - HHA Offices Closed
July 4, 2025 - Independence Day - HHA Offices Closed
September 1, 2025 - Labor Day - HHA Offices Closed
September 7, 2025 - Grandparent's Day
