Homeless couple to marry and move out of woods

TAMPA, FL (WFLA) – Rocky and Evelyn are a homeless couple receiving the wedding of their dreams. Now they’ve received even more good news.

The couple’s story generated national attention after News Channel 8 shared it. Rocky and Evelyn are getting married Friday, April 1. A local wedding venue, Cross Creek Ranch, donated the entire ceremony.

Many others offered their help too. From the hair and makeup, to the dress and tuxedos, everything was donated.

There is also another big change coming for Rocky and Evelyn.

The couple is getting a permanent place to live, thanks to a Housing and Urban Development prorgam.

“They go into what’s called permanent support housing … And that’s a new strategy from HUD nationwide,” Tampa Police Department homeless liaison Dan McDonald said.

According to HUD’s website, the HEARTH Act consolidates the three separate McKinney-Vento homeless assistance programs, including the Supportive Housing Program, Shelter Plus Care Program and Section 8 Moderate Rehabilitation SRO Program, into a single grant program known as the Continuum of Care Program.The former Supportive Housing Program (SHP) helps develop and provide housing and related supportive services for people moving from homelessness to independent, supportive living. Program funds help homeless people live in stable places, increase their skills and their income, and gain more control over the decisions that affect their lives.

Click here for a list of requirements for the program.

Rocky and Evelyn are ready for a new life.

“Yeah, I’m excited. It’s been two and half years. The only thing I’m gonna miss are my animals. I’m an animal person, you know that. But other than that, I’m ready to go. I’m ready to get settled,” Evelyn said.

The place will be completely furnished thanks to a group called Homemakers of Hope. It’s located off Poinsetta Avenue in Tampa.

As for the wedding, the couple will be shuttled to their destination Thursday by Tampa Airport Transportation. They’ll be picked up across from the homeless camp where they live. They will have a rehearsal dinner and then spend the night. The wedding is at 5 p.m. Friday at Cross Creek.WHAT OTHERS ARE CLICKING ON RIGHT NOW: