The Pinellas “People First” Hurricane Recovery Programs will officially open on October 20, 2025. These programs provide financial assistance for homeowners, renters, and landlords impacted by recent hurricanes across Pinellas County. Funded through an $813,783,000 Community Development Block Grant for Disaster Recovery (CDBG-DR) from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development, the initiative focuses on rebuilding homes, restoring housing stability, and supporting long-term recovery for those most affected.
As part of Pinellas County’s largest federal disaster recovery initiative, a $813,783,000 Community Development Block Grant (CDBG-DR) from HUD, the “People First” programs are designed to help:
- Repair, reconstruct, or replace homes damaged by hurricanes
- Reimburse eligible homeowners for previously completed, documented repairs
- Offer landlord support for recovering rental units
- Assist eligible homebuyers with closing costs, down payments, or mortgage assistance
- Provide disaster relief reimbursement for documented housing-related expenses (rent, utilities, etc.)
Residents of Gulfport (and all eligible Pinellas County localities) may qualify, especially if they have unmet needs not covered by FEMA, insurance, or other relief programs. Programs prioritize very low to low-to-moderate income households, with eligibility reaching up to 120% of the Area Median Income.
How To Apply (starting October 20):
1. Visit recover.pinellas.gov to review program details, eligibility, and required documentation.
2. Call (727) 606-3307 (phone line active starting October 20)
3. Meet with a Case Manager at one of the county’s offices or upcoming pop-up locations.
Case managers will also host outreach in community centers across the county; the City of Gulfport will publicize local pop-up event times and venues as they are scheduled.
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What the City of Gulfport is Doing in Support
- We are coordinating with Pinellas County to ensure City of Gulfport residents are aware, informed, and encouraged to apply.
- Our communications channels (website, social media, local newsletters) will carry reminders and updates.
We strongly encourage everyone in the City of Gulfport who has been affected by hurricanes, whether structurally, financially, or through displacement, to review these programs and apply. This is an exceptional recovery opportunity, and we want our community to benefit fully.