900 families to be evicted from Florida mobile home park

At least 900 families residing at the Li'l Abner mobile home park in Sweetwater, Florida, were notified that the site will close its doors permanently on May 19, 2025.

Following the news, park residents took to the streets and raised their voices to ask political leaders for help, amid the uncertainty and concern about finding a new place to live.

Sweetwater Mayor José “Pepe” Díaz released a statement sharing his concern about the news.

“It is understandable that this notification, which arrived without prior warning and so close to the holiday season, has left many families distressed. My administration and the city commissioners are exploring all possible resources to provide support during this difficult and transitional time,” he said.

In an official statement, Li'l Abner park management said those affected will receive an incentive of up to an additional $14,000 if they decide to leave the property before the end of January 2025. However, for many of the families, financial support is insufficient to cover the expenses that the change will entail.

It was also explained that the closure is part of a community development plan that seeks to modernize the area and bring long-term benefits to the community.

“Horrible, super sad. What can I say? It was something we knew would eventually happen, but not so soon,” said Andrea Elvira Gonzalez in an interview with local affiliate Channel 7 News Miami. “I’ve lived here for 30 years; it’s like there’s no humanity, because elderly people live here, little kids, people with lack of resources.”

Other residents complained that since the new plan includes new housing it is being driven by profits without consideration for people.

“This is a big business of people who just want the money of people that are going to get rich,” said Melvin del Chiaro in Spanish.

Tenants told local news affiliate NBC 6 that the notices caught them by surprise.

“I don't know what's going to happen,” Lucy Deahora said. “I'm by myself, I'm alone, I don't have anybody.”

“It's not okay to be throwing us out for more buildings,” Daniel Rosabal said.

The plan includes construction of affordable and workforce-oriented housing, a K-12 school, medical facilities, a community center and a park, among other services.