With thousands of homeless families and children living in hotels and motels along U.S. Highway 192, Osceola County commissioners have now made it their priority to create more affordable housing.

"We come to start here, and it's pretty hard to get a job. It's hard to get a house," said Alba Medina. "It's hard for everything."

It's the same story for an estimated 12,501 families in Osceola County. They work, but it's not enough.

That's why many people end up stuck living in hotels, because there isn't enough affordable housing. For every 100 low-income families in Osceola County, there are only an estimated 12 affordable units.

"One of our top priorities is alleviating homelessness through affordable rentals," Osceola County Commissioner Cheryl Grieb said Monday.

County Commissioners are considering a few different options. They could buy property and build nearly 200 new units, or they could invest in existing affordable housing organizations and build a few dozen homes or units.

Listed below are several options that have been presented to the county to increase the affordable housing inventory:

  • Council on Aging (Rapid Rehousing Facility Proposal)
    • Additional 189 units to house handicapped individuals, very low income, precariously housed and hotel families.
    • Cost approximately $1.5 million for land.
    • Case Management supportive services will be provided by the Council on Aging and other providers
  • Habitat for Humanity
    • 6–10 homes (one year) Osceola County Strategic Plan
    • 6–10 low income families that contribute sweat equity
    • $240,000 Community Service Grant with a $1 for $1 match (Florida Mortgage Settlement Fund).
    • There are no case management services proposed for this initiative which targets families. 
  • H.O.M.E. (Transitional Housing up to 1 year)
    • Additional 16 units
    • Building 1: 6300 square feet $616,100
    • Building 2: 6800 square feet $656,100
    • Operational cost approximately $300,000
    • Staff cost $100,000
    • This effort’s targeted population is women and children.
  • 1650 Yates Road, Kissimmee
    • 9 Acres Low Density Residential Development
    • Cost approximately $525,000 for land.
    • Mix use development to include 32+ single family detached homes

"We have limited resources. But at least that's our road map for the next fiscal year." Grieb explained.

Commissioners said they plan on discussing affordable housing, and their budget, in September.