Need help paying rent, electricity or buying food in South Florida?

By Flor Paz

Updated June 30, 2025 6:04 PM

Many families in South Florida are facing financial hardship. If you need help paying rent, covering your electricity bill or feeding your family, there are local, state and federal programs that can help. Tom Werner Getty Images

Many families in South Florida are struggling financially. If you’re having trouble paying rent, keeping the lights on, or putting food on the table, several federal, state and local programs offer assistance. Here’s how to access them.

If you’re struggling, you’re not alone—these resources can provide real relief when you need it most:

Rental assistance

Miami-Dade

PHCD Emergency Rental Assistance Program. Phone: 305-723-1815. Apply here

Broward County

The main rental program has ended, but emergency funds are still available through nonprofit partners. More info here

Palm Beach County

Offers temporary assistance for rent and utility payments. Official site

Also available:

Miami-Dade’s rental waitlist is open again.
Miami offers up to $500 to help seniors pay rent.

Utility assistance

LIHEAP – Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program

Provides direct payments to power companies like FPL.
Up to $1,300 per year per household.
Priority is given to households with seniors, children, or people with disabilities.
Apply through your local county or community center.

Where to apply:

Miami-Dade: Apply here
Broward: More info
Palm Beach: More info

Food assistance

SNAP (formerly Food Stamps)

Monthly benefits on an EBT card for use at supermarkets, farmers markets, and even Amazon.
Apply via the DCF MyACCESS portal: Apply here

TEFAP – Free Food Distribution

The Emergency Food Assistance Program (TEFAP) provides free fresh and canned foods through Feeding South Florida and other food banks.
Find one near you

Cash assistance

Temporary Cash Assistance (TCA)

Monthly cash support for pregnant people or those with children.
Can be used for rent, food, and basic needs.
Apply through MyACCESS.
Can be used alongside SNAP and Medicaid.

Not sure where to start? Call 211

Dial 211, available 24/7 in English and Spanish, across all South Florida counties.You’ll be connected to local services for housing, food, employment, mental health, and more.You can also visit: https://211.org

Documents needed to apply

Valid ID
Proof of income or unemployment
Recent utility or rent bills
Proof of residency (lease or utility bill)

Note that help is available, but programs vary by county and may only run while funds last.

This story was originally published June 30, 2025 at 5:58 PM.