Community Connections Event Brings County Services Directly to Residents

Hillsborough County hosted its first quarterly Community Connections resource expo this month, giving residents an opportunity to learn about a wide range of services, programs, and resources available to them.

Community Connections is designed to meet residents where they live. The events rotate to different areas of the County to ensure all communities have access to resources and essential services. The expo brings together multiple County departments and community partners, giving residents the chance to speak directly with staff, ask questions, and navigate important resources.

Hillsborough County resident Latasha Jackson called the event eye-opening.

"Everything there was a great need," said Jackson. "I didn't know that some of these services existed and are free of charge."

Attendees at this month's expo received information on emergency preparedness, health care, transportation services, early learning opportunities, education, and a variety of other community-driven initiatives.

Departments in attendance

• Affordable Housing Services
• Aging Services
• Children's Services
• Emergency Management
• Head Start
• Health Care Services
• Homeless & Community Services
• Social Services
• Sunshine Line
• Veteran Community Services

Strengthening community wellness

Hillsborough County Health Care Services played a key role at the event, sharing details about its no-cost and low-cost health care programs, eligibility assistance, preventive care resources, and services that help residents maintain long-term health and stability. Their presence ensured that attendees learned first-hand about the many health-related resources available for both uninsured and underinsured residents.

Preparing before the storm

With the 2026 hurricane season underway, Hillsborough County's Office of Emergency Management played an important role in the event by helping residents prepare for potential storms before an emergency occurs.

Emergency Management staff provided information on evacuation zones, disaster preparedness kits, emergency alerts, shelter information, and the importance of developing a family emergency plan. Staff also highlighted resources available through HCFL.gov/StaySafe and encouraged residents to sign up for HCFL Alert to receive critical alerts and other public safety notices sent directly to their devices.

Sunshine Line helps residents stay connected

County representatives from Sunshine Line shared information about transportation services available to eligible residents throughout Hillsborough County. The program provides door-to-door transportation for seniors, low-income residents, and individuals who qualify for specialized transportation assistance. During the event, attendees had the opportunity to learn more about the enrollment process and how transportation assistance can support independence and improve access to important services.

Learn more about Sunshine Line, including eligibility requirements, fees, and enrollment information.

Bringing services to the community

Community Connections events serve as a bridge between residents and County government, helping families discover programs, ask questions, and build relationships with the departments that serve them year-round. Event organizers say the program highlights Hillsborough County's commitment to ensuring residents are aware of the resources available to them.

It's an event Latasha Jackson says can benefit residents of all ages.

"There's a lot of good resources here for people of all ages," said Jackson. "From medical care and counseling services to transportation and the Head Start program, there's a lot of services for everyone."

Residents can stay up to date with upcoming Community Connections events and available County services by visiting the human services section of the website.