Treasure Coast Sun

The Treasure Coast Homeless Services Council (TCHSC) has been awarded a $400,000 grant by the City of Port St. Lucie. This funding is intended to offer emergency rental assistance to individuals at imminent risk of homelessness or those already experiencing it. Imminent risk refers to individuals or families facing potential loss of housing within 14 days, often due to eviction.

The City received these funds from the federal Emergency Rental Assistance 2 (ERA2) program. These resources will aid Port St. Lucie residents through a Rapid-Rehousing program, designed to connect homeless individuals and families with stable, permanent housing solutions. The program also provides supportive services like housing stabilization case management and referrals.

Rayme L. Nuckles, Visionary Leader at TCHSC, expressed gratitude towards the city: “We are incredibly grateful to the City of Port St. Lucie for recognizing the critical need for emergency rental assistance in our community,” adding that the grant will support individuals and families struggling with housing stability.

Applications for the ERA2 Rapid-Rehousing Program opened on December 2nd at 9 a.m., closing after receiving 50 applications. Local non-profit service providers can refer clients in need. Interested residents can apply via link.cityofpsl.com/TCHSC, visit CityofPSL.com/housing, or contact TCHSC directly at (772) 213-9040 for more information.

The $400,000 funding is available until exhausted or by September 30, 2025, whichever comes first.

Carmen Capezzuto, Director of Neighborhood Services for the City of Port St. Lucie stated: “The Treasure Coast Homeless Services Council provides services that are incredibly valuable for some of our most vulnerable residents.” Capezzuto emphasized this initiative as an example of collaborative efforts that keep residents housed and benefit the community significantly.