The application portal for the LeeCares Hurricane Ian Housing Recovery Program opened at noon, Feb. 1. Lee County and its partners are ramping up outreach to increase awareness and assist residents impacted by the storm.  

LeeCares outreach includes community events and presentations, door-to-door contact, and in-person case managers at various locations. Funding for the LeeCares housing program comes from the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development’s Community Development Block Grant – Disaster Recovery allocation to Lee County to address the disaster recovery needs of residents affected by the hurricane. 

There are three programs for which individuals now can apply: 

• The Housing Rehabilitation, Reconstruction and Elevation program may assist income-eligible property owners to repair, replace and/or elevate property that suffered hurricane damage.
• The Home Purchase Assistance may assist income-eligible home buyers to purchase a qualifying primary residence outside of the flood zone in Lee County.
• The Voluntary Residential Acquisition program may assist income-eligible homeowners of a repetitive loss property relocate outside of flood-prone areas in Lee County.

To view a full list of eligibility requirements and documents needed to apply, visit www.leeflcares.com. Questions can be emailed to leecares@leegov.com. Individuals also can call 239-382-5453.  

Once an application is submitted, individuals will be assigned a designated LeeCares case manager to provide updates. If an application is approved, the funding is a grant – not a loan – and does not need to be repaid if applicants comply with the terms of the grant. 

In partnership with Harry Chapin Food Bank and Lee County Libraries, LeeCares intake staff will be available at upcoming food-distribution events to help individuals with the application process: 

• Feb. 5 and 12: 9 a.m. to noon, 2980 Edison Ave., Fort Myers, 33916.
• Feb. 8, 15, 22 and 29: 9 a.m. to noon, 7101 Bayshore Road, North Fort Myers, 33917.
• Feb. 19 and 26: 9 a.m. to noon, 10346 Pennsylvania Ave., Bonita Springs, 34135. 

Residents can also apply in person, starting this month, at 

Fort Myers Beach Town Hall Trailer; 2731 Oak St; Fort Myers Beach, 33931

Fridays (Feb. 9, 16 and 23), 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.