Polk County residents will soon be able to apply for new housing assistance programs funded through nearly $4.7 million in State Housing Initiatives Partnership (SHIP) funding for the 2026-2027 fiscal year.
Applications open July 1 and will remain available through June 30, 2027, or until all funds are exhausted.
The funding will support programs including down payment and closing cost assistance, housing demolition and reconstruction, rehabilitation for owner-occupied homes, foreclosure prevention assistance, and new construction projects for income-eligible buyers.
County officials estimate the funding will help complete 72 housing-related projects across Polk County. The largest portion of funding, about $1.5 million, is dedicated to demolition and reconstruction projects, while $1.2 million will go toward down payment assistance for homebuyers.
At least 20% of the funding will support special needs households, including residents with developmental disabilities who need home modifications.
Residents seeking additional information can contact Polk County Housing and Neighborhood Development at (863) 534-5240.
SOURCE: POLK COUNTY GOVERNMENT
