Fort Myers families can apply for rent and utility assistance starting Sept. 1

The City of Fort Myers confirmed it has funds available through the state’s Coronavirus Relief Fund to help individuals and families who need rent and utility assistance due to the impacts of the pandemic.

Residents can apply through the city’s portal for “Community Development” beginning at 8 a.m. Sept. 1.

According to the city, housing and real estate division staff will enter information for anyone who does not have access to a computer. Those individuals are asked to call 239-321-7970 for help with the application process.

• Applicant must reside in City of Fort Myers municipal boundaries prior to the date of application
• Applicant must demonstrate loss of income unexpected financial crisis due to COVID-19
• If the applicant has household income less than 120 percent of median income for Lee County and has documented job loss or reduced hours and income is less, specifically due to COVID-19, they are presumed to be eligible
• Assistance is limited to one-time per household and assistance cannot exceed $2,250.
• Payments will be made directly to landlord and/or utility company
• Annual household income at the time of application must be below the income limit. Income limits vary by household size

The income guidelines are based on the number of people in the household. Annual household income must be less than 120% of the median income for Lee County. For a one-person household, the income level is $57,960; it’s $66,240 for two people; it’s $74,520 for three people; it’s $82,680 for four people; it’s $89,400 for five people; it’s $96,000 for six people; $102,600 for seven people; and it’s $109,200 for a household of eight people.

For more information, you can contact the housing and real estate division at 239-321-7970 or email TEA@cityftmyers.com.

MORE: New application period opens Sept. 1 for rent and utility assistance for city residents