Application for Stabilization

Geographic Scope: Tampa Bay Area

Program Philosophy:

• Provides more than monetary assistance; often helps families with MUCH more than requested
• Goal is to stabilize families so there is no future need for assistance
• Not a one-bill-per-month assistance program
• Views each dollar as an investment in families wanting to get back on their feet
• Team of 3 with no government funding

Eligibility: "In Crisis to No Fault of Their Own" Means:

• Every attempt has been made to gain employment and pay own bills
• Necessary paperwork and filings completed; receiving child support from children's other parent
• No history of drug or alcohol abuse
• No criminal record of any kind
• Bank statements show no history of unnecessary spending habits
• No extended history of relying on charitable organizations with no improvement

What They Can Help With (If Approved):

• Food
• Gas
• School supplies
• Clothing
• Utility payments
• Needs for children
• Holiday gifts
• Items for families rebuilding homes (kitchen supplies, bedroom necessities, furniture, etc.)
• Items for disadvantaged kids to participate in school activities
• Various items required for family success and prosperity

What They CANNOT Help With:

• Rent or mortgage payments
• Legal assistance
• Medical bills
• Student loans
• Bail money
• Major car or home repairs
• All other requests reviewed on case-by-case basis

Documentation Required:

• Photo ID for all household adults
• Bank statements
• Pay stubs
• Police reports (if applicable)
• Medical records (if applicable)
• Other supporting documentation as needed

Emergency Resources:

• Emergency: 9-1-1
• Resources: 2-1-1

Application Process

Current Status:
Applications are currently closed for updates. A new process is being implemented.

When Available Again:

1. Complete the Application for Stabilization form (details not provided in current materials as application is closed)
2. Submit Supporting Documentation:
   • Photo ID for all adults in household
   • Bank statements
   • Pay stubs
   • Police reports (if applicable)
   • Medical records (if applicable)
   • Other relevant documentation
3. Submission Method:
   • Submit to: requests@handsacrossthebay.com

Resources While Application Closed:

• Emergency situations: Call 9-1-1
• General resources: Call 2-1-1