Utility and Housing Assistance Program
The purpose of the Utility and Housing Assistance Program at Step Up Suncoast is to bring individuals out of crisis and in to financial stability. We do this through a variety of funding programs and your Client Services Specialist will help determine which program(s) fits your needs best.
IMPORTANT ANNOUNCEMENT
Please read the descriptions for the current funding programs for changes to eligibility.
Current Funding Programs
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP): LIHEAP services are provided to assist income eligible families to meet their immediate home energy needs in the form of electric and occasionally gas.
This program is available to individuals living in Hardee and Manatee Counties.
Low Income Home Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP): FUNDING NO LONGER AVAILABLE
Season of Sharing (SOS): ONLY THOSE WHO HAVE NOT PREVIOUSLY RECEIVED SEASON OF SHARING ASSISTANCE MAY APPLY. The goal of Season of Sharing is to provide one-time emergency assistance to families. Funds may be used for: rent, mortgage, and/or utilities. This program is available to individuals living in Manatee and Desoto Counties.
Making an Appointment
All individuals needing assistance must book an appointment online.
The online appointment system opens on Tuesday-Friday at 8am. *Appointments go quickly and are often gone within the first 30 minutes so please plan accordingly when scheduling. They are on a ‘first come, first served’ basis.
**IMPORTANT NOTE: Beginning September 6, all appointments will be in person at our offices.
Manatee: 6428 Parkland Dr. Sarasota, FL 34243
Hardee/Desoto: 225 E Main St Wauchula, FL 33873