We’re thrilled to share that Manatee Habitat has received a generous $118,000 donation from Bank OZK through Florida’s Community Contribution Tax Credit Program (CCTCP). This incredible contribution funded the majority of construction costs for a Habitat home in the Poling Gardens community, now home to Nelsie, a local teacher and single mother of two.
Bank OZK has been a steadfast supporter of Manatee Habitat since 2018, standing beside us not only as a financial contributor but as an active community partner. Their local team volunteers regularly on our build sites, lends their talents to annual fundraising events, and provides financial literacy courses to future homeowners. The bank also extends its generosity in practical ways, offering discounted rent for our administrative offices and assisting with bilingual communication through their fluent Spanish-speaking staff.
Nelsie’s journey to homeownership is one of resilience, hope, and faith. Born and raised in Puerto Rico, she grew up facing hardship but never lost her determination to build a better life. As a devoted mother and full-time teacher in Manatee County, Nelsie has worked tirelessly to provide her two children with the stability and love every family deserves. Earlier this year, she finally achieved a lifelong dream when she received the keys to her new Habitat home—a place that now stands as a symbol of everything she’s overcome and the bright future ahead.
“For Nelsie and her children, this home symbolizes the start of a brighter, more stable future,” said Bernie Quinn, President and CEO of Manatee County Habitat for Humanity. “The Community Contribution Tax Credit Program is a wonderful way for businesses like Bank OZK to invest in their communities. Their support builds homes and transforms lives.”
The Community Contribution Tax Credit Program (CCTCP) allows Florida businesses to receive a tax credit for contributions made toward affordable housing and community development projects. By participating, companies like Bank OZK are not only supporting local families—they’re helping to strengthen the fabric of the entire community.
Through this ongoing partnership, Bank OZK continues to demonstrate its deep commitment to fostering financial empowerment, stability, and equity in Manatee County. Their generosity reflects the belief that when businesses and nonprofits work together, they can do more than build homes, they can build lasting hope.
To learn more about how you can give to Manatee Habitat with a CCTCP, contact Emily Lane at elane@manateehabitat.org or (941)748-9100 ext. 108.