I am 18 years old male in FT Myera FL who is homeless in need of shelter and food. I don’t know what to do. please send me information on where and how to apply for assistance.

A) I’m sorry to hear that you’re homeless. There are many resources available to help you get back on your feet. Here are a few places where you can apply for assistance:

• The Salvation Army offers a variety of services to homeless people, including shelter, food, clothing, and job training. You can contact the Salvation Army at (239) 332-4111 or visit their website at https://www.salvationarmyflorida.org/.
• The Lee County Homeless Coalition is a nonprofit organization that provides assistance to homeless people in Lee County. They offer a variety of services, including shelter, food, clothing, and job training. You can contact the Lee County Homeless Coalition at (239) 332-2990 or visit their website at https://www.leehomeless.org/.
• The United Way of Lee, Hendry, and Glades Counties offers a variety of services to people in need, including homeless people. They offer a 24-hour helpline that can connect you with resources in your area. You can call the United Way at (239) 275-4290 or visit their website at https://www.unitedwaylee.org/.
• Lee County Homeless Coalition is an organization that advocates and works together to provide more efficient services to those who experience homelessness. You can call them at (239) 322-6600 or visit their website at leehomeless.org for more information.
• Eternal Home We Care Outreach is a private, not-for-profit community organization that has served the housing needs of Lee County residents since 2005. They offer faith-based residential homes, transitional housing, emergency housing, and other supportive services. You can call them at (239) 693-7911 or visit their website at wecarefortmyers.org for more information.
• Fort Myers Rescue Mission provides clean shelter, counseling and job search help for clients. This shelter is for men only. You can call them at (239) 334-7365 or visit their website at fortmyersrescuemission.org for more information.
• Contact local shelters: Reach out to local homeless shelters in Fort Myers to inquire about availability and their application process. Some shelters may require you to call or visit in person, while others may have online applications. Here are a few shelters in the area:
  • The Salvation Army of Lee, Hendry, and Glades Counties: Phone: (239) 334-3745
  • The Community Cooperative: Phone: (239) 332-7687
• Seek help from social service agencies: Contact social service agencies in your area that provide assistance to individuals experiencing homelessness. They may be able to connect you with resources, including emergency shelter, food assistance, and other support services. One such agency in Fort Myers is:
  • Lee County Human & Veteran Services: Phone: (239) 533-7900
• Apply for government assistance programs: Explore eligibility for government assistance programs that can provide support. The Florida Department of Children and Families manages programs like the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and Temporary Cash Assistance. You can apply online through their website or visit a local office. Here’s the contact information for the local office in Fort Myers:
  • Lee County Community Human Services: Phone: (239) 533-7900
• Utilize local food banks and soup kitchens: Food banks and soup kitchens can provide meals and food supplies. They may also offer additional resources and referrals. One option in Fort Myers is:
  • Harry Chapin Food Bank: Phone: (239) 334-7007
• Reach out to community organizations: There may be local nonprofit organizations, churches, or religious institutions that provide assistance to those in need. They may offer shelter, food, and other support services. Consider contacting organizations in your area to inquire about available resources.

In addition to these resources, there are also a number of government programs that can help you get back on your feet. These programs can provide you with financial assistance, housing assistance, and job training. You can find more information about these programs on the website of the United States Department of Housing and Urban Development (HUD): https://www.hud.gov/.

I know that being homeless can be a very difficult and stressful situation. However, there are people who want to help. Please don’t hesitate to reach out for assistance. There is help available, and you don’t have to go through this alone.