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HHA Newsletter: October 2025: Volume 17

Message from the Executive Director 

Julio Ponce, Executive Director headshot.
Dear Residents of the City of Hialeah,

As we welcome the fall season, we also celebrate a time of progress and renewal for our community. This season, the Hialeah Housing Authority has proudly advanced initiatives that empower
our residents and strengthen our city - from expanding career opportunities to developing quality housing for the future.

Our Hialeah Workforce Recruitment Event, held on September 24 in collaboration with, Hialeah Chamber of Commerce, CareerSource South Florida, and City of Hialeah, and our many community partners, was an incredible success. More than 1,000 participants attended the event, connecting directly with employers and gaining access to meaningful opportunities that help families build brighter futures.

We also marked a major milestone with the Groundbreaking Ceremony for the Hoffman Gardens Redevelopment Phase II, held on October 7 - a transformative project that will add 304 new affordable housing units to our community. This achievement was made possible through the unwavering support of our elected officials, including former Mayor Esteban Bovo and Senator René García, the first to contribute funding toward the Hoffman Gardens Redevelopment. Their leadership and dedication, along with the invaluable partnership of Mayor Jacqueline Garcia-Roves, exemplify the spirit of collaboration that drives progress in our community.

As the year draws to a close and we enter the holiday season, I extend my deepest gratitude to our staff, residents, elected officials, and community partners. Together, we are building more than housing - we are building opportunity, dignity, and hope for generations to come.

Wishing you and your loved ones a safe and joyful fall season.

Sincerely,
Julio Ponce, Executive Director


Groundbreaking Ceremony: Hoffman Gardens Redevelopment Phase II 

On October 7, 2025, the Hialeah Housing Authority proudly hosted the Groundbreaking Ceremony for Hoffman Gardens Redevelopment Phase II, marking a major milestone in our ongoing commitment to expand quality, affordable housing for the residents of Hialeah. This new phase will add 304 additional affordable housing units, bringing the total redevelopment project to 564 units - modern, energy-efficient homes designed to uplift families and strengthen neighborhoods.

The ceremony was attended by Mayor Jacqueline Garcia-Roves, Senator Rene Garcia, Councilmembers Juan Junco, Melinda De La Vega, and Monica Perez, along with former Mayor Esteban Bovo, who joined Executive Director Julio Ponce and the HHA team to celebrate this historic milestone. HHA also recognized Thornton Construction Company, Inc., the General Contractor leading the Hoffman Gardens Redevelopment, for their outstanding partnership and dedication in helping bring this transformative project to life. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our committed sponsor, Leon Medical Centers, for their continuous support and partnership in serving our community and helping make events like this possible.

To view photos from the Groundbreaking Ceremony, click here.


HHA in the Community

Hialeah Workforce Recruitment 
On September 24, 2025, the Hialeah Housing Authority, in partnership with CareerSource South Florida, the City of Hialeah, and the Hialeah Chamber of Commerce, proudly hosted the Hialeah Workforce Recruitment Event at the Milander Center for Arts & Entertainment.

The event brought together over 1,000 job seekers and 65 employers and community partners, creating an extraordinary platform for residents to connect directly with companies hiring across multiple industries. From healthcare and education to construction and customer service, participants explored meaningful career paths and valuable training opportunities to help them build brighter futures.

This remarkable achievement was made possible through the invaluable support and leadership of Mayor Jacqueline Garcia-Roves and the City of Hialeah, whose dedication to expanding local employment opportunities continues to uplift our community.

We extend our heartfelt appreciation to our event sponsors - Casa Potin, Pollo Tropical, Greater Miami Caterers, Inc., La Poderosa Radio Station, Share Your Heart, and La Familia Medical Center - for their generous contributions and commitment to serving our residents.

The overwhelming turnout and positive feedback from employers and attendees alike underscore the power of collaboration in creating a stronger, more prosperous Hialeah. Together, we are not only connecting residents to jobs - we are connecting them to opportunity.

To view photos from the Hialeah Workforce Recruitment event, click here.


Annual Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon - Honoring Those Who Serve 
On September 25, 2025, the Hialeah Housing Authority proudly hosted its Annual Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon to honor the dedicated individuals who give their time and energy to serve our residents and community. This special event was made possible through the generous collaboration of Leon Medical Centers and Greater Miami Caterers, Inc., who helped make the afternoon both memorable and meaningful. Volunteers enjoyed a warm and festive atmosphere filled with gratitude, fellowship, and delicious food - a small token of appreciation for their invaluable contributions throughout the year.

Through their compassion and commitment, our volunteers continue to make a lasting difference in the lives of Hialeah's residents, reminding us that the heart of our community beats strongest when we serve one another.

To view photos from the Annual Volunteer Appreciation Luncheon, click here.


FPL Hurricane Preparedness Drive - Powering Safety and Readiness in Our Community 
On July 15, 2025, the Hialeah Housing Authority partnered with Florida power & light (FPL) to host a Hurricane preparedness drive at the Daisy and Rosa buildings. The event aimed to equip residents with essential resources, safety information, and hurricane readiness materials ahead of the peak storm season.

Mayor Jacqueline Garcia-Roves joined the event to show her continued commitment to resident safety and community preparedness. Residents received hurricane kits, educational materials, and guidance on how to stay safe and informed during emergencies.

This partnership between HHA and FPL demonstrates the strong collaboration between local government and community partners to protect and empower residents. By bringing vital resources directly to our housing communities, HHA continues to prioritize the well-being and resilience of all Hialeah families.

To view photos from the FPL Hurricane Preparedness Drive, click here.


DMV Services Event - Bringing Assistance Directly to Our Residents 
On July 28, 2025, the Hialeah Housing Authority, in partnership with the Miami-Dade County Tax Collector's office, proudly hosted a DMV services event at La Esperanza. This initiative was designed to bring essential motor vehicle and licensing services directly to HHA residents, eliminating the need for long commutes or extended wait times.

Residents were able to renew driver's licenses, update identifications, and receive assistance with tag and title services - all within their own community. The event was made possible through the collaboration and leadership of Mayor Jacqueline Garcia-Roves and Miami-Dade County tax Collector Dariel Fernández, whose offices continue to prioritize accessibility and customer service for all Hialeah residents.

This effort reflects HHA's ongoing commitment to providing residents with convenient access to essential public resources, empowering individuals and families through strong community partnerships.

To view photos from the DMV Services Event, click here.


4th of July Elderly Celebration - A Festive Afternoon of Joy and Community 
On July 10, 2025, the Hialeah Housing Authority celebrated its monthly elderly gathering with a spirited 4th of July-themed party filled with music, laughter, and patriotic pride. Residents came together to enjoy an afternoon of fun, friendship, and community, honoring the nation's independence in true Hialeah style.

The celebration was attended by Mayor Jacqueline Garcia-Roves and several distinguished elected officials and community leaders, including Alina García (Supervisor of Elections, Miami-Dade County), Miami-Dade County Commissioner Natalie Milian (district 6), Hialeah Council president Carl Zogby, Councilman Juan Junco, and Miami-Dade County tax Collector Dariel Fernández, along with representatives from the Office of Senator Rick Scott and the Office of Congressman Mario Díaz-Balart. Their presence and continued support reflect a shared commitment to improving the quality of life for Hialeah's seniors.

During the event, the Office of Senator Rick Scott provided federal services and assistance to the elderly, ensuring residents had access to valuable information and resources on programs that support their health and well-being.

Guests enjoyed lively entertainment, festive decorations, and a delicious lunch surrounded by friends and neighbors. The event reflected HHA's ongoing dedication to promoting joy, social connection, and dignity among our elderly residents - reminding us that community and celebration go hand in hand

To view photos from the 4th of July Elderly Celebration, click here.


Grandparents Day Celebration - Honoring the Heart of our Community 
On September 18, 2025, the Hialeah Housing Authority hosted a joyful Grandparents Day celebration as part of its monthly elderly activities. The event honored the love, wisdom, and guidance that grandparents bring to families and the community.

Residents enjoyed a warm and festive afternoon filled with laughter, music, and appreciation. Mayor Jacqueline Garcia-Roves joined the celebration to personally thank Hialeah's grandparents for their lifelong dedication and the positive impact they continue to make across generations.

Leon Medical Centers, the official sponsor of all HHA elderly events, once again supported this special gathering, helping ensure a memorable day for all who attended. Their continued partnership reflects a shared commitment to promoting health, happiness, and community engagement among Hialeah's seniors.

The event highlighted HHA's dedication to celebrating and supporting the city's elderly residents - the heart of our community - through meaningful gatherings that foster joy, respect, and togetherness.

To view photos from the Grandparents Day Celebration, click here.


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.


2025 Important Dates

  • October 13, 2025 - Columbus Day - HHA Offices Closed
  • November 11, 2025 - Veteran's Day - HHA Offices Closed
  • November 27, 2025 - Thanksgiving Day - HHA Offices Closed
  • November 28, 2025 - Day after Thanksgiving - HHA Offices Closed
  • December 25, 2025 - Christmas Day - HHA Offices Closed
  • Monday, December 22, 2025 through December 26, 2025 - HHA Offices Closed

Hialeah Housing Authority Commissioners

Maida Gutierrez headshot.
Maida Gutiérrez - 
Chairwoman

Barbara Hernandez headshot.
Bárbara (Barbie) Hernández - 
Vice Chairwoman 

Fara Alvarez headshot. 
Fara Alvarez - Commissioner

Maria Rodriguez headshot. 
Maria Rodríguez - Comissioner

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