407 Connect Is Changing Lives in Orlando

When the City of Orlando and its Community Redevelopment Agency (CRA) launched 407 Connect in August 2025, the goal was clear: move beyond temporary solutions and create a scalable, outcomes-driven approach to homelessness.

 

In partnership with the Christian Service Center, the CRA and city committed $3 million over three years to pilot a model that combines safe, dignified overnight accommodations with comprehensive case management and wrap-around services - all designed to transition individuals into housing.

 

Less than a year later, the program is already earning recognition - including a 2025 Golden Brick Award from the Downtown Orlando Partnership - while delivering measurable results for residents in need.

 

Since launch, 407 Connect has enrolled 104 individuals individuals. Of those, 48 have successfully entered housing or family reunification. Seven participants are currently on track to secure housing, signaling a strong pipeline toward continued success.

 

Early success stories underscore the program’s impact. Participants have moved from long-term unemployment to stable housing in a matter of months. Others have transitioned from prolonged housing instability into residences, while some are pursuing education and career advancement after stabilizing through the program.

 

With a goal of connecting more than 400 individuals to housing over three years, 407 Connect is emerging as a replicable model - one that demonstrates how targeted investment, strong partnerships, and data-driven strategies can produce measurable outcomes.

 

As cities across the country continue to seek effective responses to homelessness, Orlando’s approach offers a clear takeaway: when innovation is paired with sustained commitment, meaningful progress is not only possible - it’s already happening.