BayCare and Gospel, Inc. Transform Lives of Chronically Homeless in Polk County

In the heart of Lakeland stands a beacon of hope and transformation for individuals experiencing chronic homelessness. Known as Gospel Village, it was developed in 2011 by Gospel, Inc., a nonprofit organization committed to addressing the root causes of homelessness through a holistic approach that integrates a vibrant residential property, health services and community support, including a myriad of BayCare services. Currently, 43 residents call this transformative place home. 

At the core of Gospel, Inc.’s efforts is a comprehensive support system designed to meet the diverse needs of individuals experiencing chronic homelessness. According to Dr. Yashica Albert, Ph.D., Gospel, Inc.’s wellness director, chronic homelessness is defined as “anyone experiencing being unhoused for more than one year.” The group's programs are structured to provide immediate relief and lay the foundation for lasting change with residents.

“Every three years, our BayCare team is responsible for carrying out our Community Health Needs Assessment as a not-for-profit health system, and we create programs, strategies and partnerships that will meet those identified needs directly in our community,” said Meghan Mapes, BayCare’s community outreach coordinator for Polk County. “We identified access to health and social services, as well as behavioral health support and services, as areas of need. Gospel, Inc. is one of our community-based partners that provides those services to the population here in Lakeland.”

Recognizing that stable housing is essential for self-sufficiency and recovery, Gospel, Inc. offers permanent housing, including single-person apartments, family units and trailers. These homes provide a safe and stable environment where individuals can focus on rebuilding their lives, complete with vibrant murals across the property, personalized house numbers, decorating services, group classes and more. The housing is paired with case management and a full-time on-site certified peer recovery specialist provided by BayCare, to ensure residents have the resources and support they need to thrive.

Health is another critical focus. Gospel, Inc. collaborates with BayCare and other community partners to offer comprehensive medical care and mental health and substance abuse services to enhance their overall well-being and quality of life.

Meanwhile, life skills programs, from job readiness to financial literacy, empower residents to regain their independence. A sense of belonging and community is vital for emotional and social well-being. Some of the amenities on the property that build a sense of camaraderie among the residents are a garden (maintained by resident Anthony Razor), an on-site community fridge and pantry, a sprawling courtyard that hosts dinners, Bingo nights and other celebrations; and a chicken coop that provides eggs to the residents daily. A stand-alone building is home to art and sewing classes where residents make items often sold for fundraisers and at local fairs, and a space for Bible study twice a week.

Gospel, Inc. fosters a supportive community environment where residents can form meaningful relationships, participate in group activities and engage in spiritual growth. This community-centric approach helps reduce feelings of isolation and promotes a sense of purpose.

“[At Gospel Village], doing life together is the big difference,” said Dr. Albert. “That's what makes the difference, and not in only our residents’ lives, but the staff’s lives. We can walk through this life, we can cry together, we can laugh together.”

“Gospel, Inc. changed my life—it taught me how to love myself, respect others and to love others,” said Anthony Razor, whose journey from homelessness to hope is a powerful testament.

After living on the streets for most of his life and struggling with addiction and mental health issues, Razor had lost hope of ever finding stability until a friend introduced him to someone from Gospel, Inc. He was provided with stable housing and access to health care. With the support of his case managers and the community, Razor began his journey to recovery. Today, he is sober, employed at the village doing a variety of handyman tasks, like painting and gardening, is an active member of his community, and inspires others with his story of resilience.

“There’s a purpose here. I love it here; I like being a part of something special,” added Razor.

The success stories like his emerging from Gospel, Inc.’s programs demonstrate the profound difference that dedicated and compassionate care can make in the lives of individuals and families struggling with homelessness.

As Gospel, Inc. continues to grow, it remains committed to expanding its impact in Lakeland. Its vision for the future includes developing additional supportive housing units. Earlier this month, Gospel, Inc. broke ground on a new complex that will consist of 48 units when completed.