This month we had the honor of serving the residents at Hideaway Bay Apartments, a unique facility in Miami-Dade dedicated to individuals aged 55 and older who were previously experiencing homelessness. These residents now receive permanent housing through a program developed by the Miami-Dade Homelessness Trust, launched in July 2023.
Hideaway Bay took over the former La Quinta Hotel and now offers 170 rooms. Currently, 70 residents live there, with plans for more to join as the program grows. The apartments operate as a permanent rental community where residents contribute 30% of their income, mostly from Social Security, to cover housing costs. In addition to a secure roof over their heads, they are provided with vital services including Wi-Fi, three meals a day (breakfast, lunch and dinner), and laundry facilities.
While the basics are covered, there are still many personal needs that go unmet. Items like clothing, undergarments, shoes, toiletries, laundry detergent and even household essentials like plungers are in short supply. That’s where organizations like ours step in – to bridge the gap and support our neighbors in their new beginning.
During our visit, we were able to serve a hot, home-cooked meal to the residents. Our menu included BBQ chicken, mac and cheese, baked beans, cornbread and a fresh salad – bringing them comfort, especially since weekend meals at the facility are often lighter than weekday offerings.
Thanks to generous donations from volunteers, churches and other community partners, we also distributed clothing, toiletries and other essentials. These gifts not only met immediate needs but also helped stock the facility’s storage for future residents.
Beyond meeting physical needs, we were blessed to share spiritual encouragement. We offered prayer, shared the gospel and reminded residents that their journey isn’t over. With breath in their lungs, there’s still purpose in their lives and God isn’t finished with them yet.
The gratitude we received was overwhelming and the staff at Hideaway Bay were incredibly supportive of our efforts. We’re already looking ahead to our next outreach, especially since ongoing needs remain – items like bike locks, more toiletries, laundry detergent and organizing support for their donation storage areas.
We are committed to spreading the Word and continuing to show up however we can because everyone deserves to feel seen, supported and reminded that they are not alone.
If you or someone you know would like to get involved, donate or volunteer, please reach out. Let’s continue to be the hands and feet of hope in our community.
Whoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord and he will repay him for his deed.
Proverbs 19:17
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