The City of Winter Haven is excited to announce the availability of new and enhanced housing assistance programs under the State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP). These programs are designed to support the community by providing financial assistance for home repairs, rehabilitation, down payment aid, and more for eligible low to moderate-income households.
Expanded SHIP Funding Opportunities
Thanks to the Sadowski Affordable Housing Act, the SHIP funds are now available to address a wide range of housing needs, including but not limited to:
- Minor and Emergency Repairs: Assistance for repairs necessary to address health and safety issues, including leaking roofs, electrical malfunctions, and plumbing issues.
- Home Rehabilitation: Support for more significant home improvements such as roof, HVAC, and electrical system replacements, alongside accessibility improvements for individuals with disabilities.
- Down Payment Assistance: Aid for first-time homebuyers in securing the down payment needed to purchase a home within the city limits.
Eligibility and Application
Eligibility for these programs is based on household income and other criteria as detailed in the Local Housing Assistance Plan. The SHIP Program operates on a first-come, first-qualified basis, and all applicants must own and occupy the property as their primary residence within the Winter Haven city limits.
Interested residents are encouraged to reach out as soon as possible to ensure their chance for assistance. Applications and detailed program information are available through the Program Administrators, Guardian Community Resource Management. Potential applicants can reach out via email at Grants.assistant@guardianCRM.com.
Commitment to Community Housing Needs
“The City of Winter Haven is committed to addressing the housing needs of our community,” said Cedric Cox, Economic Opportunity & Community Investment Assistant Director. “We believe that everyone deserves a safe, affordable, and well-maintained place to call home. Through the SHIP Program, we are able to offer tangible support to those in need and take another step toward fulfilling this belief.”
About the SHIP Program
The State Housing Initiatives Partnership Program provides funds to local governments as an incentive to create partnerships that produce and preserve affordable homeownership and multifamily housing. The program was designed to serve very low, low, and moderate-income families.
For More Information:
For more details on the SHIP programs, eligibility requirements, and application processes, please visit the official City of Winter Haven website here:
You can also contact staff or the program administrators.
City of Winter Haven
Cedric Cox, Economic Opportunity & Community Investment Assistant Director
CCox@MyWinterHaven.com
863-291-5600
Program Administrator
Marina Edwards
Marina.Edwards@guardiancrm.com
352-437-3902