A new affordable housing complex in Winter Haven, Jersey Commons, in Florida, has attracted an overwhelming 11,000 applications for just 68 apartments, revealing a critical demand in Polk County. The development combines affordable living with onsite behavioral health services to support residents facing mental health and substance abuse challenges. Officials and nonprofits gathered to mark the complex’s opening on May 27.
Unprecedented Demand Surges
Jersey Commons, an affordable housing project in Winter Haven, has received an extraordinary 11,000 applications for its 68 available units. This far exceeded expectations, with officials shocked at the scale of unmet housing needs in Polk County. Comparatively, previous complexes like Swan Landing and Swan Lake Village had 3,000 applicants for 85 units, highlighting the intensified demand.
Focus on Mental Health
The complex targets “high-need, high-utilizers” of crisis mental health services, such as those admitted involuntarily under the Baker Act or Marchman Act or repeatedly seen by local crisis stabilization programs. This focus aims to stabilize individuals at risk of homelessness due to behavioral health challenges.
Supportive Services Included
Jersey Commons offers on-site behavioral health services, including individual counseling, assessments, and group therapy. A counselor will be available weekdays for eight hours daily, while case managers will provide 24/7 crisis support to residents, ensuring immediate assistance as needed.
Affordable Rent Structure
The remaining 51 apartments are designated for low-income individuals, with monthly rents based on income levels. For example, a person earning 30% or less of Polk County’s area median income ($17,550 annually) would pay $397 monthly for a one-bedroom unit, while a family of three earning under $45,000 would pay $1,043 for a two-bedroom apartment.
Special Resident Groups
Among the selected tenants are 10 foster care youths aging out of the system, who will receive fully furnished apartments. Additionally, three residents are transitioning from Talbot House Ministries in Lakeland, reflecting a broad support network within the community.
Integrated Medical Facilities
Central Florida Health Care plans to open a medical facility at the site offering services including dental care. This “campus” model aims to eliminate barriers by providing residents access to multiple services within walking distance, making healthcare readily accessible.
Funding and Future Expansion
Built on four acres of a 10-acre property owned by TriCounty Human Services, Jersey Commons was funded by an $11 million state grant and an equal venture capital investment. The nonprofit also plans a standalone behavioral health center nearby and envisions expanding Jersey Commons with about 100 additional units on the remaining wooded acreage pending future state funding rounds.
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