At Family Promise of Hillsborough County, we believe in hope and a future for every family facing homelessness. Since our incorporation in 2010 and the beginning of our services in 2014, we have dedicated ourselves to guiding families out of homelessness and into sustainable independence.

Rooted in the heart of Hillsborough County, Florida, our approach is centered on personalized case management tailored to the unique needs of each family we serve. Our commitment extends beyond immediate assistance, offering continuous support through post-program case management to ensure long-term success.

Our services are comprehensive, addressing the immediate and future needs of our guests. From conducting housing searches to providing financial literacy classes, and supplying essential clothing and food, we prepare families not just to leave homelessness but to thrive beyond it. By keeping families together, we maintain the familial bond and provide a stable environment for all members, especially the children, who represent a significant portion of the homeless population in the United States.

The distressing statistic that 35% of children experience homelessness in the US today, with 1600 families without homes in Florida alone, drives us to do more. The root issue often lies in the lack of affordable housing, a challenge we tackle through strong partnerships with community-based resources. Together, we strive not just to offer temporary relief, but to create lasting solutions that uplift entire families.

At Family Promise of Hillsborough County, we do more than just meet basic needs; we empower families to navigate their paths back to independence, supported by a community that believes in them. For more information on how you can help or if you need assistance, don’t hesitate to contact us via phone, visit our website, or reach out by email. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of many.

The Beginning

Karen Olson was rushing to a business meeting when she passed a homeless woman on the street. On impulse, Karen bought her a sandwich. The woman, Millie, accepted the sandwich but asked for Something more — a chance to be heard. Karen stayed with Millie and listened. What she heard made her understand that homelessness brought profound feelings of diminished self-worth and disconnection from society. Soon after, Karen and her two sons began delivering lunches to homeless people on the streets of New York.

1986: The First Network

When Karen learned that homelessness was affecting families right in her own community in New Jersey, she knew she had to do something. But this was much more than giving sandwiches. She brought together people in need and people who wanted to help. Existing community resources could provide shelter, meals, and housing. Volunteers could use their skills, knowledge, and compassion to help their homeless neighbors find employment, reconnect with society, and restore their dignity.

She approached the religious community. Congregations offered hospitality space within their buildings. The YMCA provided showers and a family day center. A car dealer discounted a van. The first interfaith hospitality network opened on October 27, 1986.

2010: We Became Family Promise

Family Promise of Greater Brandon incorporated in 2010 as an Affiliate of Family Promise. We opened the doors of our Day Center on May 4th, 2014 to serve homeless children and their families in the Greater Brandon area. It was our goal to empower homeless families to obtain affordable housing and a state of lasting independence. To date we have helped over 55 families attain their goal of sustainable housing.

Early in 2017 the Board of Directors made a decision to change our name to Family Promise of Hillsborough County as it more accurately encompassed the area we serve. We have been able to assist homeless families from all of Hillsborough County as well as partner with the County on services they offer to our guests. The change in our name took place officially in October of 2017.