How to Start a Highlands County Homelessness Assessment
Use the regional homeless coalition for intake when someone is homeless, doubled up, or facing an immediate housing loss.
Start here
Call Heartland Coalition for the Homeless at 863-453-8901 or start its client contact intake application. The coalition serves Highlands County. Intake does not guarantee immediate shelter or housing; dial 211 for current emergency and after-hours options.
Monday–Friday during business hours; 752 U.S. Highway 27 North, Avon Park; dial 211 after hours
Start the housing intake applicationWhat to have ready
- Highlands County address and a safe callback number
- A one-sentence description of the need and what changed
- Any notice, application, denial, bill, or deadline involved
- Language, mobility, communication, and accommodation needs
Words you can use
“I am currently [outside, in a vehicle, temporarily staying with others, facing eviction, or another situation] in Highlands County. My household is [describe]. How do I complete intake, and what immediate shelter route applies?”
Steps in order
- 1
Call or use the official intake route and lead with the immediate need.
- 2
Ask what eligibility, documents, assessment, and current funding or capacity apply.
- 3
Record the staff name, reference number, next action, and follow-up date.
- 4
Use the listed backup route if the program is closed, full, or not the correct door.
If the first answer is no or wait
Availability, funding, eligibility, and wait times can change. Ask for the reason in writing when possible, preserve every deadline, and dial 211 or call Highlands County at 863-402-6500 to locate another current route.
Official sources
Sources checked August 9, 2026. Confirm eligibility, hours, cost, service area, and current availability directly.
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