The new JCC is now open and with it, new opportunities for West Tampa. In addition to the pool and gym, the center provides critical services and neighbors could be the first to benefit.
The Bryan Glazer Family Jewish Community Center is welcoming the public, regardless of religion.
“One of the greatest things other than marrying my wife and having my child and maybe winning the Superbowl,” Bryan Glazer said.
This is a big win for West Tampa. A $30 million injection in the neighborhood.
“It’s a great, great investment out her,” Jennifer Hanlon said.
She moved to the neighborhood in July, just a few blocks from the new JCC.
“People that have moved in here are looking for that type of thing I mean you’ve got the YMCA but that’s way over in the south part of Tampa, now you’ve got this and it’s going to just bring this community so much better together,” Hanlon said.
The JCC said they'll provide counseling, food and financial assistance.
“We have a wonderful policy that if anybody needs food we’re going to provide it, we’re not going to turn someone away or ask for documentation, if you come to us, you need a bag of food, we’re going to provide it,” Michael Barnett, CEO of Tampa Jewish Family services, said.
This could be the start of even more neighborhood development.
“What this will do will energize this entire neighborhood, so you’re going to see more private sector investment, both in retail and commercial and residential, people are going to want to spruce up their houses, more young people will move to the neighborhood,” Tampa Mayor Bob Buckhorn said.
The food bank will be open Monday through Friday.
