From the St. Paul's Transformation Team

Happy New Year! As we step into 2026, we’re grateful for the people, partnerships, and progress shaping the St. Paul’s area. This issue of This Month in St. Paul’s highlights meaningful milestones, moments of community, and what’s ahead as we continue building together. We invite you to read on, stay connected, and start the year inspired by the progress unfolding all around us.

Family Photo Showcasing Return to Kindred Shirt

Back by Choice. Back to Community.

The message on the Welcome Home shirt says it all: “Back by Choice.” Former Tidewater Gardens residents are returning to the Kindred neighborhood—and the St. Paul’s area is welcoming them home.

At Kindred, change is visible: Unity Place, the newest apartment community, is already welcoming families home. Thirty-one families have moved in, and 77% of apartment homes are now under approved leases, marking a major milestone in rebuilding a vibrant, connected neighborhood.

With a grand opening planned for this spring, Unity Place represents more than new housing—it’s about stability, pride, and neighbors choosing to come back and grow together.

People First Program Participant showcasing Kindred community shirt

Photo of Norfolk Councilman John Paige posing with family during People First holiday party

A Season of Joy, Connection, and Giving

Last month, People First USI hosted its annual Holiday Extravaganza—“Sleigh All Day”—bringing together the People First team and more than 100 former Tidewater Gardens residents for a celebration rooted in joy and togetherness.

Families enjoyed hands-on activities led by the Norfolk Public Library, opening doors to learning and community resources. Children delighted in story time with Santa and Mrs. Claus, while food, dancing, music, and prize giveaways created moments of shared celebration across generations.

The event also spotlighted community talent. Teens With a Purpose energized the room with powerful performances, and one of our own residents took the stage—showcasing the pride, leadership, and creativity within this community.

During a season when many families faced food insecurity and life challenges, Thanksgiving and Christmas were made brighter for more than 100 families thanks to the generosity of donors and partners. Both tangible and monetary gifts helped ensure families felt supported and cared for.

Thank you to everyone who made the holidays possible, including Torti Gallas, Banc of America Community Development Corporation, St. Paul’s area Advisory Committee members, the Salvation Army, and so many others who stepped up.

Photo of Resident enjoying People First holiday party

Norfolk Public Library staff helping a child at the People First holiday party photo

Building the Future on Historic Ground

Construction is officially underway at Kinship at Kindred, with the first phase to be built on the original footprint of the former Tidewater Gardens community.

Kinship at Kindred will include a mix of apartment homes, townhomes, retail spaces, and Kinship Park—a large playground and gathering space designed to foster connection and community.

Framing and sitework are currently in progress, with completion expected in December 2026. Thanks to the City of Norfolk's Department of Housing & Community Development, you can follow the transformation as it unfolds by clicking here.

Save the Date | 2nd Annual Housing & Neighborhood Infrastructure Contracting Symposium

Hosted by the Department of Housing and Community Development (DHCD) and the Small, Women-owned and Minority-owned Business Development Department (SBSD), this full-day symposium is designed to help businesses prepare for upcoming housing and neighborhood infrastructure projects across Norfolk.

As part of the City’s Economic Inclusion efforts, participants will gain insights, connect with resources, and learn how to position their businesses for future opportunities. There is no cost to attend.
Mark your calendars - more details coming soon.

2nd Annual Housing Infrastructure and Housing Symposium save the date graphic

Announcements

The next St. Paul's Advisory Committee meeting will take place in-person on Tuesday, February 17th from 6:00pm to 7:30pm at the Foodbank of Southeastern Virginia and the Eastern Shore, 800 Tidewater Drive in Norfolk.
You can find the presentations and meeting minutes of previous meetings here.
Stay connected to the St. Paul's Transformation by following us on social media.
Questions? Please email us at stpaulstransformation@norfolk.gov.