K E E P I N G I N T O U C H N E W S L E T T E R

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1 H O U S I N G A U T H O R I T Y O F T H E C I T Y O F F O R T M Y E R S S E C O N D Q U A R T E R K E E P I N G I N T O U C H N E W S L E T T E R J U N E C A T H O L I C C H A R I T I E S, D I O C E S E O F V E N I C E, I N C. L E E, H E N D R Y & G L A D E S C O U N T I E S I N S I D E T H I S I S S U E : E X E C U T I V E D I R E C T O R S MES S A G E 2 All proceeds benefited the programs and services of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Bishop Frank J. Dewane, Sherri Campanale and Cheryl H A C F M P R O P E R T Y MAN A G E R S C O R N E R 3-4 Venice, Inc. in Lee, Hendry and Glades Counties. Jeanne Dufresne, Cheryl LaBelle, Sherri Labelle. R E S I D E N T S E R V I C E S S E N I O R C O R N E R S E N I O R C O R N E R H E A L T H F A I R F I N A N C I A L L I T- E R A C Y C L A S - S E S Campanale and Susan Brunke, employees of the Housing Authority of the City of Fort Myers enjoyed an elegant and exciting evening of cocktails, dinner, dancing, entertainment and auctions. F A T H E R S D A Y / J U N E T E E N T H E V E N T R E S I D E N T S E R- V I C E S S E N I O R C O R N E R F E A - T U R E D R E S I D E N T HACFM BOC/Leadership Team Jean Dufresne, Sherri Campanale, Cheryl Labelle and Susan Brunke. A N N U A L F A T H E R S D A Y & J U N E T E E N T H C E L E B R A T I O N The Housing Authority of the City of Fort Myers (HACFM) in partnership with the Lee County Black History Society, Cornerstone Ministries, the Boys & Girls Club of Lee County is hosting its annual Father s Day/ Juneteenth commemoration event. Seven years ago, Former President Barack Obama, announced the Fatherhood & Mentoring Initiative. This initiative is strongly supported by the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development. The 2017 Father s Day theme is Building Healthy Families with the goal to raise awareness of the important role fathers play in their children s physical and emotional health. HACFM s goal along with the community partners is to successfully connect father s with resources, services and more importantly, their children. Article written by Vivian Watkins See pages 8 & 9 more Father s Day Initiative information.

2 K E E P I N G I N T O U C H N E W S L E T T E R Page 2 I N S I D E S T O R Y F R O M T H E E X E C U T I V E D I R E C T O R M A R C U S D. G O O D S O N Greetings, The last decade has seen tremendous advances in technology designed to impact the way we live our life on different levels and how we access information. One of the many keys to success has always been the ability to access key information at the appropriate time. With that in mind, one of our goals as a housing authority is to prioritize high- quality Internet access for our public housing residents. The focus must be providing connectivity to the Internet so our school aged children can explore the world through the Internet while our older residents use this medium to communicate with children and love ones living in other parts of the country. We are exploring the benefits of partnering with T-Mobile Communications to bring Internet connectivity to each of our public housing developments through the use of a tablet, which will provide the hotspot for Internet connection. If this potential partnership is created, the benefits to our school age children should include improved grades and a broaden sense of social awareness of a world outside of their daily experience. We look forward to working with T-Mobile on this initiative. Summer recess has arrived in Lee County, and unfortunately, some of our children will now have leisurely time on their hands with little to no structure designed to stimulate them during the summer vacation. We recognized the importance of keeping children busy, with both physical and mental activities, in a structured stress-free environment. For that reason, we support the Boys & Girls Clubs of Lee County who offer many summer activities for children living in our developments. As parents, you should be committed to making sure your children s summer is fun and relaxing, but more importantly, there should be a learning component to their summer schedule that will benefit them as they enter the new school year. The Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), which is the federal agency that funds public housing and the Section 8 Program is facing what could be one of the largest percentage budget decreases in decades. Although the President s proposed budget recommends a large decrease in HUD funding, affordable housing officials remain hopeful Congress will not support such a large decrease in funding. Any decrease in funding will make an already tough business model that much more difficult to manage. And resident service programs that many of you participate in may also be impacted in a way that eliminates some of the long-term benefits that are so attractive. All is not lost; so far, we only have a proposed budget that must be approved by Congress that historically recognizes the importance of funding HUD at a responsible level. Let s hope rational minds in Congress prevails. Sincerely, Marcus D. Goodson Marcus D. Goodson Executive Director The focus must be providing connectivity to the Internet so our school aged children can explore the world through the Internet while our older residents use this medium to communicate with children and love ones living in other parts of the country. Marcus D. Goodson

3 S E C O N D Q U A R T E R Page 3 H A C F M P R O P E R T Y M A N A G E R S C O R N E R C R I M E P R E V E N- T I O N V A C A T I O N S E C U R I T Y T I P S As we approach the summer months, there will be several weeks of non-routine activities, maybe some vacations and a lot of FUN. Your summer break can be ruined in an instant if you are the victim of home or car burglary. Here are some suggestions that may help reduce your chance of becoming a victim of crime: 1. Never ever advertise you are leaving town. Social media is a great way to share excitement with friends, but wait until after the trip to tell where you ve been. Don t broadcast to criminals that you and your family will be away. If you have children in college, remind them not to Facebook, blog or tweet about your family s absence from home. 2. Lock all windows and doors in your house. Keep valuables away from windows, lower blinds and close curtains so passersby can t view these items. Remember, a significant amount of crime can be deterred if homeowners do not create easy opportunities for the criminal element. Turn your home phone ringer off or down because a loud, unanswered phone can tip someone off that you re not home. 3. In case of emergency, make sure a neighbor or relative has your cell number or a way to get in contact with you if there is any home emergencies. 4. Don t forget about your pets. If you have pets (especially a dog), a pet sitter can be a valuable asset for crime prevention. The irregular schedule of a person coming and going from the residence, and the sound of a barking can be a big deterrent to a burglar. 5. Make sure you hide or lock up valuables. 6. Keep your car locked and valuables out of site. 7. Keep a record of all items in your home (make sure to include a video or photos). 8. Report ALL suspicious activities or persons to the Fort Myers Police Department, 911 for emergencies and for non- Z E R O T O L E R A N C E P O L I C Y I N P U B L I C H O U S I N G A N D S E C T I O N 8 Report All suspicious activities or persons to the Fort Myers Police Department, 911 for emergencies and for nonemergencies. Pursuant to policies set forth by the U.S. Government and HUD, the Housing Authority of the City of Fort Myers has adopted the following Zero Tolerance Policy. Any violation of the following provisions, which are also included in your lease will result in the immediate filing to you of a Notice to Vacate and then eviction of you and your household from your residence. If you, any member of your household, or a guest, engages in any criminal activity that threatens the health, safety or right to peaceful enjoyment of the premises by other residents. HACFM Property Manager s Corner continued on page 4

4 K E E P I N G I N T O U C H N E W S L E T T E R Page 4 H A C F M P R O P E R T Y M A N A G E R S C O R N E R C O N T If you or any member of your household engages in any drug related criminal activity on or off the property of the HACFM. If you or any member of your household is illegally using a controlled substance or abuses alcohol or a controlled substance in such a way that it interferes with the health, safety or right to peaceful enjoyment of the premises by other residents. Abuse of alcohol or controlled substance that causes or results in the destruction of property of the HACFM or other tenants and/or causes health or sanitation problems. Criminal activity that threatens the health, safety or right to peaceful enjoyment includes but is not limited to: robbery, physical assault or the threat to use a firearm or others weapons, sexual molestation, debauchery of a minor, prostitution, causing serious or life threatening injury, murder. Drug related criminal activity, includes the illegal manufacture, sale possession, distribution or use of a controlled substance as defined in Section 102 of the Controlled substance Act, 21 U.S.C., and Section 802. You also understand that evictions are a civil matter and not a criminal matter and that the HACFM is not required to meet the criminal standard of proof beyond a reasonable doubt. You also understand that, pursuant to HUD policies and federal law, a criminal arrest and/or conviction is not necessary for an eviction. Even though there may be provisions in state law requiring a conviction before eviction, federal law preempts state law. You also understand that evictions are a civil matter and not a criminal matter and that the HACFM is not required to meet the criminal standard of proof beyond a reasonable doubt. P U B L I C H O U S I N G P A R K I NG The HACFM continues to have parking issues at the public housing development. Be advised that parking on the grass or in any area not authorized for parking will result in your car being towed at your expense. Your signed leased agreements state the following: 1. Refrain from driving, parking, storing or repairing any vehicle on the lawn, sidewalk, non-dedicated street, parking lot or marked restricted areas and shall cause tenant s household and guests (including any individuals on the premises due to the tenant s residency) to refrain from doing the same. 2. Any vehicle in violation of the above or any vehicle without valid license plates, in a non-operating condition, creating a public nuisance, or in various stages of repair for more than seventy two (72) hours without written permission from the rental office shall be deemed abandoned and will be removed at the tenant s or owner s expense. Additionally, the HACFM shall be held harmless for any fees, storage, damage, theft or fire involving such vehicles. Prepare the unit for pest control in the manner prescribed by the HACFM upon notice.

5 S E C O N D Q U A R T E R Page 5 R E S I D E N T S E R V I C E S S E N I O R C O R N E R The Heritage Gardening Agripreneur group at the Renaissance Preserve Senior property traveled to Sanibel Island on a field trip to the J.N. Ding Darling Wildlife Estuary. The group toured the inside of the facility where they observed the featured exhibits on refuge ecosystems. Additionally, the group traveled the Wildlife Drive which includes three trails. During the drive along the trail, the group spotted wildlife such as alligators, white ibis, owls and fish jumping in the water. As the group traveled the trail, they observed the beautiful plants and greenery. The trip was enjoyed by all and ended with a picnic in the park. Article written by Vivian Watkins R E S I D E N T S E R V I C E S S E N I O R C O R N E R, C O M M U N I T Y H E A L T H F A I R The Family Home Health Services, in partnership with the HACFM, will host a health fair. This Health Fair is available to all seniors in the surrounding community and residents of HACFM. Our list of vendors include the following: 1. Better Sounding Hearing Center - providing free hearing screenings, 2. LiveWell Pharmacy Pharmacist will be on site. 3. Mobile Mammo with Radiology Regional Center Residents will be able to make an appointment for a mobile mammogram to be performed at Renaissance Preserve on July 20 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and collect screening information at the Health Fair. 4. Just Like Family Private duty - home healthcare 5. Consulate Skilled Nursing Facility 6. Family Home Health Services providing popcorn, snow cones and free balance evaluation with the specialist. 7. American Orthopedics and Diabetic Shoes 8. Housecalls MD mobile physician group Raffle drawings will be held throughout the day. Come out and collect information on the available resources. Please join us for refreshments, prizes and a day filled with free screenings! Can t wait to see you there! Mariah Rojas, FHHS Nurse (See page 8 for the Health Fair Flier.)

6 K E E P I N G I N T O U C H N E W S L E T T E R Page 6 R E S I D E N T S E R V I C E S S E N I O R C O R N E R, C O M M U N I T Y H E A L T H F A I R

7 S E C O N D Q U A R T E R Page 7 Financial Literacy Class Schedule July 11, 2017 through August 22, 2017 CLIENT SERVICES DEPARTMENT Location: 4211 Romeo Lane, Suite #104 Fort Myers, FL Every Tuesday from 5:30 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. NOTE: No class on Tuesday 8/1/2017 Class schedule subject to change based on resident participation Class # Title and Subject Class Dates Class # 1 Class #2 Class # 3 Class #4 Class # 5 Class #6 Class # 7 Class #8 Class #9 Class #10 Class #11 Bank on it 07/11/17 Check it Out (Part 1 & 2) 07/18/17 Pay Yourself First (Why you should save) Keep it Safe (Your rights as a consumer To Your Credit (How your credit history affects your credit future) Charge it Right (How to make a credit card work for you Loan to Own (Know what you re borrowing before you buy) Your Own Home (What homeownership is all about Financial Recovery (Graduation for those who completed the 11 sessions) 07/25/17 08/08/17 08/15/17 08/22/17 MANDATORY FSS PARTICIPATION! Please call the Client Services Department at if you have any questions. If you are missing any specific class, please feel free to call the Instructor, JOANNE SHOW at and she will arrange a make up session with you.

8 K E E P I N G I N T O U C H N E W S L E T T E R Page 8 A N N U A L J U N E T E E N T H & F A T H E R S D A Y C E L E B R A T I O N

9 S E C O N D Q U A R T E R Page 9 A N N U A L F A T H E R S D A Y & J U N E T E E N T H C E L E B R A T I O N The Father s Day & Juneteenth celebration will be hosted at the Roberto Clemente Park, 3625 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd in Fort Myers. There will be music, bounce houses, kid s games, free food and drinks. A bike ride with police patrol will start at the Housing Authority at the Renaissance Preserve and end at the Roberto Clemente Park. This activity is opened to fathers to ride with their sons and daughters. In addition, the Lee County Black History Society will showcase the Juneteenth exhibit. Calling all fathers and their children to participate in the basketball tournament. During the celebration there will be stage performances. Our hope is that through the resources and Father s Day activities, it will bring families together and help improve families qualify of life. Come out and join us on Saturday, June 17 from 10 A.M. to 2 P.M. Article written by Vivian Watkins R E S I D E N T S E R V I C E S S E N I O R C O R N E R C O N G R A T U L A T E S P H I L I A V I L M E U S! S O U T H W A R D V I L L A G E R E S I D E N T Philia Vilmeus was born in Haiti, and she migrated to the U.S. in When she arrived in Fort Myers, Ms. Vilmeus said she was broken mentally and physically, but she did not allow her physical condition or mental state of mind stop her from living a purposeful life. Ms. Vilmeus was about to undergo a transformation that would impact her life immensely. She did not speak English but recognized very quickly that in order for her to seek an education her first step would be to learn English as a second language. Ms. Vilmeus attended the GED classes at the HACFM in 2009 and received her GED The next step in furthering her education was when she enrolled at Florida SouthWestern College (formerly known as Edison College). She earned an Associate in Arts degree in general studies in Focused on her future endeavous, Ms. Vilmeus was inspired by past accomplishments to persevere. She was also encouraged by her siblings and children to stay the course. Through Ms. Vilmeus persistence, on Saturday, May 6 at the Germain Arena, she walked across the stage with a huge smile. As her family cheered her on, Ms. Vilmeus received a Bachelor of Science degree in social work from Florida Gulf Coast University. The HACFM congratulates Ms. Vilmeus not only on this latest accomplishment but also on her consistent hard work in the last several years. Article written by Vivian Watkins

10 K E E P I N G I N T O U C H N E W S L E T T E R Page 10 C I T Y O F F O R T M Y E R S Randy Henderson, City Mayor Saeed Kazemi, City Manager City Council Teresa Watkins Brown, Ward 1 Johnny W. Streets Jr., Ward 2 Terolyn Watson, Ward 3 Michael Flanders, Ward 4 Forrest Banks, Ward 5 Gaile Anthony, Ward 6 H O U S I N G A U T H O R I T Y O F T H E C I T Y O F F O R T M Y E R S S C H E D U L E Y O U R E V E N T T O D A Y!

11 S E C O N D Q U A R T E R Page 11 H A C F M B O A R D O F C O M M I S S I O N E R S E. Bruce Strayhorn, Chairman Mattie Young, Vice- Chairwoman Joseph D Alessandro, Commissioner Douglas Hogg, Commissioner Peter Routsis Arroyo, Commissioner Israel Suarez, Commissioner Lemuel Teal, Commissioner Appointed by the Mayor of the City of Fort Myers, the board serves as the governing officers of the Housing Authority of the City of Fort Myers. Through formal adoption of policy, it ensures that the Housing Authority s purpose and accompanying responsibilities are carried out in as efficient and economical manner as possible. The seven board members volunteer their services to the Housing Authority. Commissioners ensure that Housing Authority operates within the law and according to the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development regulations.

12 We are on the web! Hacfm.org Housing Authority of the City of Fort Myers 4224 Renaissance Preserve Way Fort Myers, FL Phone: HACFM LEADERSHIP TEAM Executive Director Marcus D. Goodson Administrative Assistant to Mr. Goodson Cheryl Labelle Director of Housing, Maintenance, HCV & Interim Director of Resident Services Sherri Campanale Director of Finances & Human Resources Vicki Collins H O U S I N G A U T H O R I T Y O F T H E C I T Y O F F O R T M Y E R S M I S S I O N S T A T E M E N T The Housing Authority of the City of Fort Myers (HACFM), a professional housing management government corporation, owns, manages, develops and administers federal state and local housing and social programs for low, very low, and moderate-income families while successfully implementing national housing policies incorporating family selfsufficiency as the main component for transitioning families from welfare to work. The Authority s focus is twofold: It works with the community to administer successful Housing Choice Vouchers and project-based assisted housing programs. It also works to change the face of public housing by transforming the most severely distressed public housing in Fort Myers from sources of urban blight to engines of urban renewal, creating paradigm shifts in public housing culture, values and behavior through establishing positive incentives for resident self-sufficiency, providing comprehensive services that empower residents, while lessening concentrations of poverty, promoting mixed-income communities and assuring equal access to safe quality housing for low, very low and moderate-income families throughout the community.