Apply for the Pinellas People First Hurricane Recovery Programs
By: Sean Ellman, Realtor – Pinellas County Real Estate Expert
If you or someone you know in Pinellas County is still recovering from the recent hurricanes, there’s great news. The County has launched a major new initiative called the People First Hurricane Recovery Programs — designed to help residents repair, rebuild, or replace their homes, recover essential expenses, or even find safe new housing.
These programs are a vital step toward helping local families regain stability and rebuild stronger communities across Clearwater, Seminole, Madeira Beach, Largo, and surrounding areas.
What Are the People First Hurricane Recovery Programs?
The People First programs offer millions in direct financial assistance to homeowners, renters, and landlords impacted by hurricanes Helene, Milton, and Idalia.
Funded by $813 million in federal Community Development Block Grant Disaster Recovery funds from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD), this effort is the largest federal recovery investment ever awarded to a local government in Florida.
The goal: to put Pinellas County people first by helping them recover safely and sustainably.
Available Assistance Programs
Residents can choose from five main programs, depending on their needs:
Homeowner Rehabilitation or Reconstruction
Helps repair, rebuild, or replace hurricane-damaged homes.
Available to income-eligible homeowners who lived in the property during the storm.
Applies to both site-built and mobile homes.
Homeowner Reimbursement
Provides reimbursement for documented, code-compliant repairs already completed.
Must have lived in the home during the hurricane(s) and meet income guidelines.
Local Landlord Program
Offers funding to landlords who repair or rebuild rental properties damaged by hurricanes.
Participants must agree to rent to income-qualified tenants at affordable rates for at least five years.
Homebuyer Assistance
Supports income-qualified buyers in purchasing safe, affordable homes located outside flood zones.
Can help cover down payments, closing costs, or lower mortgage interest rates.
Disaster Relief Reimbursement
Covers essential hurricane-related expenses such as rent, mortgage, or utilities.
May reimburse up to six months of eligible documented costs.
Who Should Apply?
Anyone in Pinellas County (excluding the City of St. Petersburg) who still has unmet housing or financial needs after receiving FEMA, insurance, or state assistance should consider applying.
Income limits vary by program, but support is available for families earning up to 120% of the Area Median Income (AMI). For example, a family of four can qualify with income up to $125,160 per year.
The Local Landlord Program does not have income limits, though landlords must agree to federal affordability terms.
How to Apply
Residents can review eligibility guidelines, required documents, and submit applications online at:
👉 recover.pinellas.gov
In-person help is available Monday through Friday, 8 a.m.–5 p.m. at:
2600 McCormick Drive, Suite 100, Clearwater
5000 Park Street, Suite 4, St. Petersburg
Other ways to connect:
Call: 727-606-3307 (speak with a case worker or leave a message for a callback)
Text: “RECOVER” to 888777 for updates about new pop-up assistance sites across the county
Due to expected high demand, residents are encouraged to visit the website for FAQs and full application details before calling or visiting in person.
Why This Matters for Pinellas County Homeowners
As a local Real Estate Agent living and working in Pinellas County, I’ve seen how devastating hurricane damage can be for families and property owners. These programs offer a once-in-a-generation opportunity to rebuild safer homes, stabilize finances, and strengthen our communities.
If you’re unsure how these programs might affect your home value, your recovery options, or your next move, I’m here to help you navigate the process and explore your best housing opportunities in Pinellas County.
🏡 About the Author
By: Sean Ellman, Realtor – Century 21 Beggins Enterprises
Helping Pinellas County residents buy, sell, and rebuild with confidence.
📞 Phone: 727-717-0440
📧 Email: SeanEllman@c21be.com
🌐 Website: BuyTheSand.com
📚 More Information
All official program information, application forms, and income qualification details are provided by Pinellas County Government.
Visit the official site for the most up-to-date details:
👉 https://pinellas.gov/news/apply-for-the-pinellas-people-first-hurricane-recovery-programs/