Community Assistance

Your City is Here to Help!

In light of the financial impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, the City of Homestead has launched several community assistance programs for those in need.

Food Assistance Program

The program is currently closed due to the number of applications exceeding the amount of available cards and applications are being evaluated in the order in which they were received.  Questions should directed to startoffsmartinc@gmail.com or 305-224-5585.

Rental & Utilities Assistance Programs

The following programs are available for those in need of rent and utility assistance.  Please carefully review eligibility requirements and the full application.

CDBG Rent & Utilities Assistance Grant Program

The City of Homestead CDBG Mortgage Rent & Utilities Assistance Grant Program (the “Program”) is accepting new applications for Mortgage, Rent and Utilities Assistance. This program will provide emergency assistance to households within the incorporated City of Homestead experiencing financial hardships as a result of the COVID-19 crisis. Eligible households may receive up to $6,000 or up to 6 months of assistance to address back-mortgage, rent and utilities. 

Should you have any questions regarding Mortgage, Rent and Utilities Assistance, please email HousingCOVID@cityofhomestead.com.

Please click here to apply for the CDBG Rent & Utilities Assitance Grant

HELP Utilities Assistance

Homestead Public Services Customers may be eligible for one-time utilities assistance from the HELP Contribution Assistance Program.  Customers in need of assistance can apply for HELP Contribution Assistance by calling HPS Customer Service at 305-224-4800.

OUR Florida Rental & Utilities Assistance

OUR Florida is accepting applications at www.OURFlorida.com for qualified low-income renters who have qualified for unemployment, experienced loss of income and financial hardships due to COVID and who are at risk of losing their home or living in unstable conditions.  All payments for utilities and home energy costs must be supported by a bill, or invoice in the name of the tenant reflecting the address for each qualifying utility for a period after April 1, 2020.

Small Business Assistance Programs

The following programs are available for those in need of small business assistance.  Please carefully review eligibility requirements and the full application.

CDBG Small Business Emergency Recovery Grant Program

The COVID-19 pandemic has had a devastating impact on the small business community.  Recognizing that this impact may cause increased unemployment and slum blight, the City of Homestead is offering emergency assistance grants for small businesses located within the City limits of Homestead based on a finding of Urgent Need.

The City will assist eligible small businesses with a grant up to $10,000.00 for COVID relief assistance. Grants will be made until funds are expended.  Businesses may use grant funds for mortgage/rent, PPE, cleaning supplies, payroll, utilities and replace spoiled food. Should you have any questions regarding Small Business Emergency Recovery Assistance please email SmallBusinessCOVID@cityofhomestead.com.

Click here for more information and to complete application online 

Other Assistance Programs

Miami-Dade County recently launched new assistance programs for all Miami-Dade County residents.  Click here for more information.