Only small repairs such as batteries, tires, water hoses, brakes, engine belts, etc., are eligible for financial assistance. Any repairs over $1,500 must require approval. At least one estimate from a licensed auto repair company is required. All repairs must be approved before assistance is provided.

Appointments for medical services such as dialysis or cancer treatment, which require one or more weekly visits, are eligible. Verifying documentation required.

Doctors’ appointments for ROUTINE health care, such as blood work, physicals, eye care, dental care, etc., are NOT eligible.

No, the program does not reimburse individuals for vehicle repairs. Additionally, program funds may not be used to pay an applicant's insurance deductible or collision repairs. All approved assistance must be paid directly to a licensed auto repair facility. Repairs must be approved before assistance is provided.

Applicants must reside in St. Lucie County and need repairs to maintain employment, education/training, or ongoing health care. Applicants MUST have proof of ownership and car insurance. The vehicle must be owned by the applicant. Only small repairs, $1,500 or less, such as batteries, tires, water hoses, brakes, engine belts, etc., are eligible for financial assistance. 

Income eligibility is based on household size. A household is an individual or group living together as one economic unit, regardless of relation. Applicants living with their spouse or partner are considered a household. To qualify for assistance, the household income may not exceed 200% of the Federal Poverty Level. Income guidelines listed above. The household must also demonstrate a need for service(s).

Households with one or more vehicles must demonstrate that each vehicle is currently being used for employment, education, or healthcare-related purposes. Documentation may be required to verify the vehicle’s current use and its necessity for meeting the household’s employment, educational, or healthcare needs.

Income eligibility is based on household size within the last 30 days. A household is an individual or group living together as one economic unit, regardless of relation. Gross income must be used as per grant guidelines. Verifying documentation required. The household must also demonstrate a need for service(s).

The following is considered income per grant guidelines:

• Money wages and salaries before any deductions;
• Self-employment wages after deductions for business expenses;
• Social Security payments;
• Unemployment;
• Worker’s compensation;
• Veteran benefits;
• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF);
• Alimony;
• Child support;
• And all other allowable sources of income as determined by the grant guidelines.

Verifying documentation required.

The following documents must be provided at the time of appointment:

• Picture ID for all adults in the household 18 or older
• Social Security Cards for all in the household
• Birth Certificates for all children in the household under 18
• Proof of all household income for the prior 30 days
• Proof of St. Lucie County residency, such as a lease or mortgage statement
• Utility bill
• Valid driver’s license for applicant
• Proof of active Florida registration
• Proof of active auto insurance
• Proof of employment OR ongoing medical care for last 30 days
• One quote for repair

Additional documents may be requested.

The Human Services Division receives the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) from the State of Florida Department of Economic Opportunity. These funds aim to alleviate the causes and conditions of poverty in communities and help promote self-sufficiency.