What is SHIP?

The State Housing Initiative Partnership (SHIP) Program is administered by the Florida Housing Finance Corporation. It provides funds to local governments as an incentive to create partnerships that produce and preserve affordable homeownership. SHIP funds are distributed on an entitlement basis to all 67 counties and 52 Community Development Block Grant entitlement cities in Florida.

Martin County Human Services administers this grant program for Martin County and develops the three-year Local Housing Assistance Plans for the program.

You may be eligible for the SHIP program if:

  • You are a Martin County resident.
  • You are the homeowner and the home is your primary residence.
  • Your household income falls within the specified guidelines.
  • Your home’s market value (determined by the Property Appraiser) does not exceed $560,154.
  • You complete the SHIP application and provide the required documentation.

Note: Mobile homes are not eligible.

Martin County Rental Assistance is designed to assist renters that are either in arrears with their rental payment(s) or to obtain a lease on a rental unit. The assistance provides funding for the first and last month's rent, plus a security deposit for a new rental.

Assistance for clients in arrears shall consist of no more than three (3) months of rental payments. A documented hardship is required. Applicants must meet SHIP program guidelines regarding income and the rental limits associated with their income bracket.

How to Apply

To apply for the SHIP Program, please access our Online Application Portal, then select "Register." Once you create an account, you will be able to submit an application. For any questions, please call us at (772) 288-5456.

If you are unable to register and complete the application online, please call us at (772) 288-5456 to schedule an appointment, and we will arrange for you to complete the application in our office.

Any applications not submitted within 60 days will be considered inactive.

Martin County Human Services
Monday through Friday, 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
435 SE Flagler Avenue
Stuart, Florida 34994
(772) 288-5785