ST. PETERSBURG, Fla. — St. Petersburg is the first city in Florida to adopt the “Yes In God’s Backyard” (YIGBY) housing policy, allowing churches and other places of worship to build affordable housing on unused land.
City leaders say the effort could help close a widening housing gap — especially for low-income residents, seniors on a fixed-income and young adults leaving the foster care system who often struggle to find stable housing.
What You Need To Know
St. Petersburg is the first city in Florida to adopt the “Yes In God’s Backyard” (YIGBY) housing policy, allowing churches and other places of worship to build affordable housing on unused land
Faith Youth Services is now raising funds to expand housing — and says the new law could make expansion possible through partnerships with churches
Palm Lake Urban Sanctuary is moving forward with plans for 86 affordable housing units on its property with the help of YIGBY
City leaders say the effort could help close a widening housing gap — especially for low-income residents, seniors on a fixed-income and young adults leaving the foster care system who often struggle to find stable housing
A critical gap after foster care
Faith Youth Services operates a transitional home for young men who have aged out of foster care. But the organization says demand far exceeds space.
“We are maxed out. If we had more room, we’d have more kids,” said CEO Chris Davis.
Residents learn hands-on job skills like mechanics and landscaping while living there — training meant to prepare them for independence.
But once they leave, housing becomes the biggest hurdle.
“Just trying to get to the next level, trying to find a place,” one resident said.
Faith Youth Services operates a transitional home in St. Pete for young men who have aged out of foster care. But the organization says demand far exceeds space. They are raising funds and with the help of YIGBY have partnered with two local churches to build housing options. (Spectrum News/Fadia Patterson)
Why housing prevents deeper problems
Davis says the lack of housing can quickly push vulnerable young adults into dangerous choices.
“It’s a big game changer,” said Davis. “When these kids age out of the foster care system, if they’re homeless, they’re more prone to find ways to get money so they can find a place and get off the streets.”
Because of that risk, the nonprofit is now raising funds to expand housing — and says the new law could make expansion possible through partnerships with churches.
Churches stepping in
The YIGBY policy lets faith institutions rezone unused property for residential development.
Mayor Ken Welch says even small projects could have a big impact.
“It might be five units, maybe one or two — but it contributes to solving the problem,” he said.
Palm Lake Christian Church (Palm Lake Urban Sanctuary) is already moving forward with plans for 86 affordable housing units on its property.
“For us, this is a passion project,” said Pastor Oscar Banks. “We pray people wake up every day with new hope.”
The units will be income-restricted for residents earning up to 80% of the area median income.
City leaders expect more congregations to follow, with additional applications anticipated this year.
Advocates say the policy could create a new pipeline of housing — one that prevents homelessness before it starts and keeps vulnerable young adults from entering the justice system.
Photos below courtesy of Pastor Oscar Banks
