FISH of SANCAP is excited to announce its participation in Elevate Florida, a groundbreaking statewide residential mitigation program designed to help homeowners strengthen their properties against future hurricanes and floods. This initiative, led by the Florida Division of Emergency Management (FDEM), offers eligible homeowners the opportunity to elevate, reconstruct, or implement wind mitigation measures on their homes with up to 75% of costs covered by the program.
For many island residents, disaster recovery is an ongoing process. Hurricanes Ian, Helene, and Milton devastated homes and displaced families, and while many have rebuilt, the reality of future storms remains strong and concerning. Elevate Florida provides a proactive way for homeowners to protect their homes and reduce future risks, creating safer, more resilient communities.
Understanding the complexities of applying for government-funded programs, FISH is ready to guide homeowners through the application process and assist with the required paperwork. Their team can also help residents navigate additional financial assistance opportunities, particularly for those who may struggle to cover the 25% homeowner cost-share requirement. While funding details are still being finalized, FISH remains committed to helping neighbors access the resources they need to stay safe in their homes.
“Many of our residents are still working to fully recover from the financial and emotional toll of recent storms,” says Maria Espinoza, Executive Director of FISH of SANCAP. “Elevate Florida offers a vital solution, and FISH is here to ensure that those who qualify don’t miss out on this opportunity. We encourage anyone who might be eligible to apply and reach out to us for guidance.”
You do not need to have experienced prior flooding or hurricane damage to qualify. Eligibility includes:
- Being a legal property owner in Florida
- Being at least 18 years old and a U.S. citizen, non-citizen national, or qualified alien
- Being able to contribute up to 25% of the total project cost
Multi-family real estate such as duplexes, triplexes, condos, townhomes, semi-detached homes, apartments and manufactured homes may be eligible. Eligible construction projects include:
- Structure Elevation – Physically raising an existing home above flood levels
- Mitigation Reconstruction – Rebuilding a storm-resistant structure when a home cannot be elevated
- Wind Mitigation – Strengthening roofs, windows, and doors to reduce wind damage
- Acquisition/Demolition – Voluntarily selling a home in flood-prone areas for conversion into open community space
The Elevate Florida application portal is now open at: https://fdem-resmit.my.site.com/Elevate/. Homeowners can also call 877-ELEV8FL (877-353-8835) for assistance.
FISH encourages all homeowners on Sanibel and Captiva to explore this opportunity and take proactive steps toward securing their homes against future storms. Residents interested in applying can inform FISH by completing this short online form ( https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSf7nV7MTxb2l7yRXlvBZqUQNeENtHsobqiq1z6M2JATf2Il9A/viewform?usp=header).
By completing this form, FISH will have an overall view of involvement from the community and who would like assistance with the application process. Interested homeowners may also call FISH at 239-472-4775 for assistance with the application process, questions about financial support, or general guidance.
“Participating in this program has the potential to generate substantial cost savings over the course of homeownership. Protecting your home now means protecting your future,” adds Espinoza. “We’re here to help make that happen.”
To participate in the Elevate Florida program, certain documentation is required, including images of all sides of your dwelling, a copy of your homeowner’s flood insurance policy (if applicable), property tax details, an elevation certificate (if available), and more. For additional information, please visit the Elevate Florida portal or contact FISH for assistance with the submission process.
For more information about FISH of SANCAP’s disaster recovery programs or to learn how to support their efforts, visit www.fishofsancap.org or call 239-472-4775. To learn more about all FISH programs or to support their mission, please contact Maria Espinoza, Executive Director.
