Learn how The Sharing Center provides essentials, financial assistance, and compassionate guidance to our neighbors

In Seminole County, nearly 40% of families are struggling to make ends meet. For thousands of our neighbors, the pressure of overdue bills, food insecurity, and housing instability is a year-round reality.

The Sharing Center’s Families in Crisis program is here to provide urgent relief and compassionate support to help families and individuals stay in their homes, keep the lights on, and put food on the table. Our belief is simple: every person deserves dignity and compassion, especially during times of financial hardship.

How we help

Through Families in Crisis, our dedicated case managers provide life-changing essentials for our neighbors in need. Within the past year, over 20,000 individuals received financial assistance, groceries, clothing, and other critical resources that helped prevent hunger and homelessness.

Steve, a client of the Families in Crisis program, shared how The Sharing Center stepped in just days before his family would have lost their home:

“We were literally about a week and a half away from the judge going to tell us to get out because we just didn’t have the money. And they came in at the last minute and saved the day.”

Through emergency rent assistance, food from the Pantry, clothing vouchers, and help accessing medical care for his wife, Steve and his family were able to stay in their home and regain stability.

“They definitely care. Some places didn’t even want to hear anything… But here, zero of that. The compassion is everything.”

Read Steve’s full story here.

Steve (and his son), Clients of The Sharing Center.

Providing basic essentials

We define “basic essentials” as the necessities everyone needs to live and thrive:

• A safe and stable home
• Nutritious food
• Clothing for everyday needs
• Utilities such as electricity and water
• Access to resources that encourage long-term stability

Whether it’s paying an overdue utility bill or ensuring a family has groceries for the week, our program offers a helping hand during moments when stability is at risk.

Learn more:
The Oasis Program: Providing dignity, stability, and hope for unhoused individuals and families

Compassionate support

When someone comes to The Sharing Center for help, they’re met with compassion, understanding, and respect. Our case managers not only address urgent needs but also offer guidance for long-term solutions, such as:

• Budgeting assistance
• Help with applying for benefits
• Employment referrals

This approach empowers our neighbors to move from crisis toward hope and stability.

Assistance currently available

We are now accepting applications for rent/mortgage and utility assistance. To ensure applications are processed quickly, please remember:

• Submit copies of documents, not originals (originals will not be returned)
• Only complete applications will be reviewed
• Drop off applications between 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. or 1:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who does the Families in Crisis program serve?

The program serves families and individuals in Seminole County who are facing challenging circumstances, such as financial hardship, hunger, or homelessness.

What services does the Families in Crisis program provide?

The program provides financial assistance, groceries, clothing, and other basic essentials, including help with rent, mortgage, and utility payments.

Can I apply for rent, mortgage, or utility assistance?

Yes, we are currently accepting applications for rent, mortgage, and utility assistance.

How do I apply for financial assistance?

To apply, complete the application form and submit all requested documentation. You can drop off completed applications and documents between 9:00 a.m.–12:00 p.m. or 1:00 p.m.–4:00 p.m.

What do I need to know before submitting my application?

• We only accept copies of documents; originals will not be returned
• Only complete applications with all required documentation will be reviewed

Where can I find the application form?

You can find the application form and additional details here.

Hope and help are within reach

The Sharing Center’s Families in Crisis program is here to provide the essentials, guidance, and compassion needed to get through challenging times. Whether it’s keeping the lights on, putting food on the table, or finding a path toward stability, we’re committed to helping our neighbors move from crisis to hope.

Together, we can ensure families in our community have the support they need to thrive
Learn more about our mission and how you can get involved