Low- and very low-income Special Needs homeowners in Manatee County can now apply for financial help through the State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) program for housing rehabilitation and replacement assistance from the Manatee County Community and Veterans Services Department. Special Needs households are defined as having a member of the household with developmental disabilities as defined in the Florida Statutes. The program emphasis is on home modifications, including technological enhancements and devices, which will allow homeowners to remain independent in their own homes and maintain their homeownership.

Until July 22, 2022, at 5 PM, qualified residents can submit entry forms through the Housing Rehabilitation/Replacement Program. The program provides 0% interest-deferred payment 30-year loans to make code-related repairs to single-family homes or replace dilapidated single-family housing structures. Through this program, housing conditions can be corrected and modified to improve the health, safety and welfare for the people who live there. The online program entry form can be accessed by clicking the “Complete Entry Form” button on the Homeowners Rehab/Replacement Webpage. Those who need help completing and submitting an online entry form are encouraged to call 941-749-3029.

On July 29, 2022, County staff will use a lottery-style drawing to determine which applications to review first. Funding will be awarded to households who meet the eligibility requirements until all funds have been committed. To be eligible, Special Needs households must be located in unincorporated Manatee County or the City of Palmetto and be within the program standards for very low/low income and property value.

Read eligibility online.