News Summary
The Spring Family Picnic at Jordan Park was a vibrant celebration organized by the St. Petersburg Housing Authority (SPHA) for families and residents. Happening on March 18, 2025, the event featured a carnival theme with martial arts demonstrations, hula hoop contests, creative activities like face painting and balloon animals, and much more. Community partners provided resources and support, emphasizing unity and connection. With ongoing improvements at Jordan Park, SPHA’s goal remains to enhance community living and foster self-sufficiency for low-income households.
Spring Family Picnic at Jordan Park Features Martial Arts Demonstration and Community Fun for SPHA Families
St. Petersburg recently witnessed a delightful gathering at the Spring Family Picnic hosted by the St. Petersburg Housing Authority (SPHA) on March 18, 2025. With a vibrant carnival theme, this event was a feast for the senses, bringing together families and residents for a day filled with laughter, games, and community spirit at the beautiful Jordan Park.
A Day of Fun and Learning
The atmosphere was buzzing with excitement as families enjoyed a wide array of activities designed to entertain all ages. One of the highlights was an impressive martial arts demonstration featuring talented students from the SPHA who are enrolled in the well-respected Shihan School of Survival. This school, founded in 2005 by Shihan Walter Evans, aims to empower youth by teaching crucial skills in Jujitsu and Karate. The curriculum helps address significant issues like obesity, violence, and bullying, making it a vital resource for the community.
If you love music, then DJ Dondy was the life of the party, spinning lively tunes and hosting exciting hula hoop contests. The beat had everyone on their feet and ready to join in the fun. For those looking for some creative flair, Awesome Austin’s Entertainment was on hand to craft amazing balloon animals that brought smiles to both children and adults alike!
Creative Activities to Spark Joy
Children’s laughter could be heard throughout the park as Face Painting Brittni transformed little faces into colorful works of art, ensuring every child left with a big smile. As if that wasn’t enough, the thrill-seekers could test their courage during the tree climb organized by Pathfinder Outdoor Education. Attendees tackled a towering tree, always under the watchful eye of skilled professionals, making it a safe and exhilarating experience!
Community Support and Resources
This year’s picnic was made even more special by the involvement of several community partners, including organizations like Bay Area Legal Services, Brotherhood of Men, and CAN Community Health. Each partner brought something unique to the table, offering resources and support, reflecting the community’s spirit of togetherness.
A heartfelt thank you goes out to the sponsors who supported this fantastic event, including Domino’s Pizza and the Lewis Williams Education Foundation. Their contributions helped ensure that families enjoyed a day filled with joy and connection.
Jordan Park: A Historic Community
As many know, Jordan Park is not just any location; it is a historic housing community, recognized as the first African American housing community in St. Petersburg. Recently, SPHA has made significant strides in enhancing the living conditions at Jordan Park, with the redevelopment plan approved by HUD in 2021. This includes transitioning 206 family apartments from Public Housing to Project-Based Vouchers. Ongoing renovations are set to improve these units, featuring new flooring and energy-efficient upgrades.
In addition to the family units, a brand-new building named The Legacy at Jordan Park was completed, providing 60 units specifically for seniors aged 62 and older. This new midrise offers dignified living spaces, creating a nurturing environment for the community’s elder population, with its grand opening held on October 27, 2023.
Serving the Community
SPHA plays a crucial role in the lives of over 4,000 low-income households in St. Petersburg, focusing on providing affordable housing and promoting resident self-sufficiency. The Spring Family Picnic served as a perfect reminder of the importance of community, empowerment, and joy in the lives of all residents. With such engaging events, SPHA continues to foster a sense of belonging and support among its families. Everyone left the picnic not just with a fun day behind them but with meaningful connections and a stronger sense of community.
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Additional Resources
- St. Pete Catalyst: Spring Family Picnic at Jordan Park
- Fox 13 News: Youth Program in Jordan Park
- ABC Action News: Transforming Abandoned Hospital
- Patch: 71-Unit Affordable Housing Project
- St. Pete Catalyst: HUD Renews Funding for SPHA
- Wikipedia: Affordable Housing
- Google Search: Affordable Housing Programs
- Google Scholar: Community Support Housing
- Encyclopedia Britannica: Housing
- Google News: St. Petersburg Housing
