TO: The Honorable Board of County Commissioners
THROUGH: John A. Titkanich, Jr., County Administrator
Michael C. Zito, Deputy County Administrator
Cindy Emerson, Community Services Director
FROM: Megan Kendrick, Human Services Manager
DATE: October 7, 2025
SUBJECT: Human Services Rental Assistance Program
__________________________________________________________________
BACKGROUND
The Board of County Commissioners (BOCC) has historically provided emergency rental assistance to residents of Indian River County experiencing financial hardship. This support is designed to help families remain stably housed during times of crisis. To qualify, residents must show proof of income and demonstrate their ability to maintain residency after the emergency.
Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, eligibility for rental assistance operated on an 18-month cycle. During the pandemic, this was adjusted to a 12-month cycle to better meet increased community need.
Currently, once a client meets all qualifications, the County pays 60% of their rent for one month, up to $1,000, once per year. The client is responsible for paying the remaining 40% and any fees prior to the County issuing payment of the 60% balance directly to the landlord.
As the chart below indicates, over the past four years, demand for rental support has increased significantly, from 91 clients ($79,235.52) in Fiscal Year (FY) 2021-22 to 185 clients ($151,135.31) during FY 2024-25 as of September 10, 2025.
Fiscal Year Total Clients Served Funds Utilized
FY2021/2022 91 $79,235.52
FY2022/2023 143 $92,514.83
FY2023/2024 174 $119,509.98
*FY2024/2025 185 $151,135.31
*As of September 10, 2025
This sharp rise is likely due to both increased awareness of the County’s program and reductions in funding across other community a...
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