New round of HUD funding launches October 20 — offering help for homeowners, landlords, and buyers still rebuilding after recent storms.
Starting October 20, Pinellas County residents can apply for a new round of hurricane recovery funds through the People First Hurricane Recovery Programs — a record-breaking $813 million grant from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD).
This is the largest storm recovery grant ever awarded to a local government in Florida, designed to help families, landlords, and property investors rebuild stronger than before.
WHAT IS THE PEOPLE FIRST PROGRAM?
The People First initiative prioritizes low- to moderate-income residents still recovering from Hurricanes Idalia, Helene, and Milton. The goal is simple: get money into residents’ hands as quickly as possible — ideally by Christmas.
Pinellas County Commission Chair Brian Scott called it a “huge economic lift for the county,” noting that Pinellas moved faster than most Florida counties in setting up recovery programs.
WHO QUALIFIES?
The program serves Pinellas County residents (excluding the City of St. Petersburg). St. Pete will soon launch its own version, called Sunrise St. Pete, with similar funding opportunities.
Most of the funds (about 70%) will go toward residents with low-to-moderate incomes, but assistance is also available for those earning up to 120% of the Area Median Income (roughly $87,600 for one person).
WHAT PROGRAMS ARE AVAILABLE?
The county is offering five main programs to cover a wide range of recovery needs:
- Disaster Relief Reimbursement
Provides up to $15,000 for storm-related expenses such as rent, mortgage payments, or utilities not covered by FEMA or insurance. - Homeowner Reimbursement
Offers up to $50,000 for code-compliant repairs that have already been completed. - Homeowner Rehabilitation & Reconstruction
Provides up to $375,000 to repair or completely rebuild a damaged home. - Local Landlord Support Program
Assists rental property owners with rebuilding or repairs, with the agreement that they will rent to income-qualified tenants. - Homebuyer Assistance
Offers up to $80,000 toward closing costs or down payments to help residents purchase safer homes outside of flood zones.
Each program is designed to help residents fill the financial gaps left after FEMA, insurance, or other recovery programs.
WHY THIS MATTERS
For homeowners, this could mean long-overdue relief for hurricane repairs or the opportunity to move into a safer, more resilient home.
For landlords and property investors, it’s a chance to rebuild rental properties while contributing to affordable housing in the community. If you’ve been considering adding or rebuilding income-producing properties, this program may open new opportunities — especially in markets like Tampa Bay, where demand for affordable and storm-resilient housing continues to rise.
For homebuyers, the Homebuyer Assistance Program could make it possible to purchase a home in a safer area, outside of flood zones — with up to $80,000 toward closing costs. If you’re exploring options, visit our Help Me Buy page for resources and current listings across the Tampa Bay area.
HOW TO APPLY
Applications open October 20th.
Visit recover.pinellas.gov to learn more or start your application, or call 727-606-3307 for help.
You can also meet with case managers in person at:
- 2600 McCormick Dr., Suite 100, Clearwater
- 5000 Park St., Suite 4, St. Petersburg
County staff will host pop-up events at community centers throughout November and December to help residents apply.
WHAT THIS MEANS FOR PINELLAS HOMEOWNERS AND INVESTORS
This funding represents a major investment in Pinellas County’s long-term recovery and resilience. It will help stabilize neighborhoods, encourage new construction, and create safer housing opportunities — all of which could have a lasting impact on the local real estate market.
For investors, the ripple effects may include renewed demand for updated and storm-resilient housing, especially in coastal and barrier island communities. For homeowners, this could strengthen property values and restore confidence in rebuilding after the past few difficult storm seasons.
Curious how this could impact your property, investment strategy, or home search?
Reach out to Alla Panteleeva, Broker/Owner of FL Investment Realty, for insight on what these changes might mean for you and your real estate goals.
📞 (727) 251-4004
📧 allarealtor@hotmail.com
Broker Alla Panteleeva FL Investment Realty
People First Hurricane Recovery Programs – Pinellas Recovers