Human Services Department
Social Services Programs
Temporary Emergency Assistance Programs
All County assistance programs are based on proof of county residency, current income, and the availability of funds.
FOOD CLOSET
Assistance is available when a household is faced with an emergency situation and needs non-perishable food items to help them through a 1-3 day period.
Link www.myflorida.com/accessflorida
PRESCRIPTION ASSISTANCE
County residents not on Medicaid and not on any other insurance program may be eligible for emergency assistance with prescriptions. Assistance with up to a thirty (30) day supply of medications such as antibiotics, heart medication, etc. may be provided. No assistance is available for controlled substances, over-the-counter medications or refills.
COUNTY RESOLUTION HOSPITAL ASSISTANCE
Qualified county residents who are not eligible for any Medicaid, Medically Needy, Medicare, or any other insurance program may be eligible for assistance with hospital bills under certain circumstances. The referral for this type of assistance must be sent to the Department of Human Services by one of the three area hospitals within thirty (30) days of the admission date.
LIHEAP
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program is a federally funded Block Grant provided through the Florida Department of Community Affairs which provides a one time per year home energy assistance grant to low income households for the purpose of heating or cooling their homes. The program can also assist with emergency home energy assistance under certain situations and contingent on the availability of funds. The grant is paid directly to the consumer’s energy/utility company such as Florida Power & Light, TECO Gas, Amerigas, etc. Households may also be referred to the Weatherization program serving Charlotte County who may assist with energy conservation.
EHEAP
The Emergency Home Assistance for the Elderly Program provides a benefit to households where at least one member is 60 years older or older. The household has to have received a final notice from their utility company, i.e. FP&L, or have already had their service interrupted. Income guidelines apply and benefits are paid directly to the energy/utility company.
HEARTSHIP
This is a community participation program offered by Charlotte County Utilities in partnership with the Board of County Commissioners and the Department of Human Services. This program provides assistance to qualifying customers who have an URGENT NOTICE or had their water service interrupted due to a family or personal crisis.
SELF-SUFFICIENCY
Assistance may be available for economically eligible households which are facing a crisis that threatens their self-sufficiency. Program may be able to assist with rent, mortgage, vehicle repairs or other needs in order to stabilize the household. Usually, this program is operated in conjunction with other community resources in order to assist households in their stabilization goals. The program is funded, in part, with federal funds provided through the Community Development Block Grant and with the Florida Department of Community Affairs.
