“These direct benefits are for our senior and disabled citizens who have experienced a reduction in income or increased expenses during the COVID-19 pandemic,” Mayor Lenny Curry said. "The actions we’ve taken as a City to flatten the curve of COVID-19 were successful, but also placed a heavy burden on many throughout Jacksonville. We must do what we can to help those affected financially because of this virus.”
 
With this grant program, the City will make one-time payments of $300 to 3,300 qualifying seniors and disabled citizens.
 
“We recognize how difficult COVID-19 has been, especially for our residents on fixed incomes,” Councilman Aaron Bowman said. “It’s an honor to serve on the City Council to be able work closely with my colleagues and Mayor Curry to help our community in this time of need.”
Grants will be awarded on a first come, first served basis to applicants who meet the following conditions for eligibility:

• Must reside in Duval County;
• Must certify that you did not receive funds from the City’s VyStar Small Business Assistance and Employee Retention Loan Program;
• Must certify that you did not receive funds from the City’s Mortgage, Rent, and Utilities Relief Program;
• You must be either 72 years or older OR receive Social Security Disability benefits;
• You have experienced either a reduction in income or an increase in expenses due to the COVID-19 pandemic;
• Your adjusted gross income did not exceed $30,000 in 2019;
• Only one card may be issued per household;
• You will also need to provide your birthdate and the last 4 digits of your Social Security Number.

All applications will be reviewed for completeness and accuracy before payment cards will be distributed.  Payment cards will be mailed directly to the applicant, who will then need to call the customer service number provided with the card for activation.  Payment cards must be used like a credit card, cash back from an ATM or a register is not available.
 
Those interested in participating in the program are strongly encouraged to create a MyJax account at myjax.custhelp.com (follow the link for the “Senior and Disabled Financial Assistance Program”) before applying; the same website and account will be used for the application process.  Citizens may also call 904-255-8888 for assistance with their application over the phone starting Saturday, June 20, at 8 a.m. While citizens may create a MyJax account immediately, the application process will not begin until Saturday, June 20, at 8 a.m.