SHIP Disaster Assistance

How it works

Flagler County says this program is a temporary use of existing SHIP funds, triggered only when a disaster is officially declared by the Governor of Florida or the President of the United States. The county emphasizes that these are not extra disaster dollars; they are the same limited funds normally used for ongoing housing programs. Because of that, assistance is not immediate and applicants may be triaged into existing programs that may already have waitlists.

What the money covers

The county says it can help with:

• insurance deductibles to help cover storm damage repairs,
• rent or mortgage assistance for households that lost income because of the disaster,
• utility assistance, but only when combined with rent or mortgage help.

How payments are made

Payments are made directly to vendors, including contractors, lenders, landlords, or utility companies.

How to apply

When assistance is available, the county says an online application link will be posted on the page. Help completing the application is available by appointment at the Flagler County Health & Human Services office.

Timing and deadlines

Assistance is only available for the current declared disaster. The page says the county cannot provide help for past storms or unrelated situations. Applications must be complete and submitted before the end of the disaster declaration to be considered.