In front of over 100 people on May 25, City of Orlando Housing Coordinator Frances DeJesus-Davila agreed to support an initiative by Orlando FOCUS to build affordable homes for low-to- moderate income families in the Parramore section of the city. As a first step, the City will work with FOCUS and Mt. Zion Baptist Church to make available three city properties for construction, identify other properties, and provide up to $65,000 in City assistance to acquire properties. 

Along with other State and Federal programs, the City will provide financing assistance of $20,000 - $30,000 towards home purchases for low to moderate income families.  The Orlando Neighborhood Improvement Organization agreed to build the homes and provide assistance to qualified buyers. Mt. Zion leaders identified more than 25 families in the community wanting to be homeowners. Many of them were at the meeting and are now in the process of getting certified to qualify for a home. For more information visit www.focusorlando.org