Official Lee County Government Web Site

Living Independently for Today (LIFT) Program

Referrals, Service Coordination, Benefits

Referrals - The referral process is an important component of the LIFT program. Most referrals come from programs operated by local shelter agencies designed to assist clients to become "housing ready". Typical referrals come from the Salvation Army, Lee Mental Health, SWFAS, or ACT. All candidates are also screened for program "appropriateness" based on the following criteria focused on housing readiness specifically related to the ability to secure and retain stable income and housing.

Household income needs to be sufficient to maintain housing and other expenses
Applicants with substance abuse, mental health, or domestic violence issues need to be willing to deal with those issues with an appropriate community provider

Coordination of Services - LIFT participants receive service coordination (case management) for one year after housing placement and are required to maintain regular contact with the Coordinator. The purpose of service coordination is to assist participants with referrals to, and networking with, other local agencies who might play a role in connecting the participant with available community resources. The Coordinator will also assist the participants in the development of short and long-term goals. These goals are developed based on the individual's and Coordinator's assessment of each houehold's situation with respect to their assets and needs, including consideration of any issues with respect to eligibility.
Benefits - All financial benefits focus on assisting clients to secure and retain permanent self-sufficiency and stable housing. Participants may receive assistance with move-in costs including first and last month's rent and security and utility deposits. Transportation assistance may also be available in the form of bus passes to adi in work search, transportation to employment and medical appointments, etc. Housing selected by or for the participants is inspected to ensure it is decent, safe, sanitary, and affordable. An inspection includes documenting any repairs or cleaning needed prior to signing agreements with landlords. Clients may be eligible for re-adjustment suport during their first year of housing placement.