TAMPA, Fla. — A program that gives Floridians money to protect their homes from hurricanes is now accepting new applicants.
The My Safe Florida Home program is taking applications for low-income senior residents until July 15. The popular program gives free home inspections and money to upgrade features such as doors, windows and roofs to make sure the house can withstand storms. Then, residents can apply for grants to pay for these features.
Homeowners can get up to $10,000 for hurricane hardening features as the state provides $2 for every dollar a homeowner spends. The goal is for owners to save money on their insurance premiums and reduce the costs of repairs after a hurricane hits.
The program has been around since 2022, but this year, the program is prioritizing senior citizens and low-income residents in their application process. Here are the dates participants can apply:
- Low-income homeowners age 60+: July 1-15
- Low-income homeowners of any age: July 16-30
- Moderate-income homeowners age 60+: July 30-Aug. 14
- Moderate-income homeowners of any age: Aug. 15-30
- All other eligible Florida homeowners- Aug. 31
The program used to be first come, first serve. Now, the application periods are staggered in 15-day increments. Low income means households making less than 80% of the median household income and moderate income is defined as homeowners making 120% of the median household income.
During this year's legislative session, another $200 million was added to the program. Gov. Ron DeSantis also approved a program similar to this one but for condo owners near the coastline. The governor set aside nearly $30 million in the budget for the program and condo associations or boards will have to vote to apply for grants. Associations could get up to $175,000 for window, door and roof upgrades.
House and townhouse owners can apply online at mysafeflhome.com.