BRANDON, Fla. — Florida’s Lieutenant Governor Jay Collins recently visited Windhorst Commons, a new Habitat for Humanity development in Brandon. This neighborhood is being constructed with hurricane-resistant features to provide durable housing for veterans and working families.

The visit coincides with Habitat for Humanity of Tampa Bay Hillsborough’s appeal to state legislators for nearly $1 million in funding during the 2026 legislative session. The requested funds aim to enhance affordable housing options, prioritizing veterans, first responders, essential workers, and families recovering from last year’s hurricanes.

As of January 2024, there are 32,882 veterans experiencing housing instability, underscoring the urgent need for affordable housing solutions tailored to veterans across the country.

Windhorst Commons, comprising 23 homes, has been specifically designed to withstand hurricanes, featuring reinforced construction and storm protection measures. These homes are intended to provide safety and stability for families during severe weather events.

The nonprofit organization views this project as a new beginning for the families who will inhabit these homes. During the tour, Habitat leaders introduced one of the families that will soon call Windhorst Commons their home.

“The kids are like ‘we get our own room?’ So, they are so happy,” said Brian Nakamura.

Nakamura, a U.S. Army veteran, and his wife are raising six children and currently live in a three-bedroom Hillsborough County townhouse.

Through Habitat’s Veterans Build efforts, Nakamura has worked alongside volunteers to help build his family’s new five-bedroom home at Windhorst Commons.

“I served because I wanted to serve my country, and it’s nice that there’s a program that kind of gives back to the veterans. So we’re just blessed with the opportunity,” Nakamura said.

Habitat for Humanity of Tampa Bay Hillsborough CEO Tina Forcier said the neighborhood is focused on families with the greatest need, including those impacted by hurricanes Helene and Milton.

“They’re being constructed for families that earn less than 80% of the area median income,” Forcier said.

Collins, a 23-year U.S. Army Special Forces veteran, also spoke at the site about the importance of homeownership for veterans.

“It’s a hand up. It’s pushing people forward and helping them live their best life on their terms,” Collins said. “Our home ownership is the American dream. Providing opportunity to a veteran to get up on their feet, embrace that American dream and live their life their best life right here in the state of Florida is an incredible thing.”

The Nakamura family says they expect to close on their new home no later than June of next year.

Habitat for Humanity of Tampa Bay Hillsborough says construction on the homes at Windhorst Commons is scheduled to wrap up by the end of next year.

As part of its legislative request, Habitat for Humanity of Tampa Bay Hillsborough is seeking $950,000 to help build six affordable homes for income-eligible families earning less than 80% of the area median income.

Of that amount, $600,000 would support land acquisition and $350,000 would offset construction costs.

The nonprofit says it will continue to provide affordable mortgages, HUD-approved housing counseling, financial education and home maintenance training.