Helping Hillsborough County residents access the disability benefits, SSI/SSDI, they need to regain stability, independence, and long term well being
SOAR program services and support
The SOAR program is part of Hillsborough County Health Care Services and supports eligible residents who are experiencing homelessness or those who are at risk of becoming homeless and have significant health challenges. Through a guided, compassionate, and expedited application process, SOAR helps individuals with serious mental health, medical, or co‑occurring conditions apply for Supplemental Security Income/Social Security Disability Insurance (SSI/SSDI) benefits.
The SOAR program promotes stability recovery, empowering some of the county’s most vulnerable residents to improve their quality of life by helping them access income.
Program benefits
- Helps qualified residents apply for SSI/SSDI using a supportive, accelerated model
- Serves Hillsborough County residents experiencing homelessness or housing instability
- Supports residents with serious mental health, medical, or co‑occurring conditions
- Maintains a strong approval rate on initial applications (87% over nine years)
Who may qualify
- Adults experiencing or at risk of homelessness in Hillsborough County
- Residents not experiencing homelessness may still receive help with a non‑SOAR SSI/SSDI application
- Residents with severe mental illness, medical conditions, or co‑occurring disorders expected to last 12 or more months or considered terminal
- Residents currently on or eligible for the Hillsborough County Health Care Plan
- Applicants who do not already have a paid representative (attorney or disability advocacy group)
How to Apply
- Complete a secure online referral form
- Referrals may be submitted by individuals, family members, shelters, hospitals, or service providers
- SOAR case managers review referrals and contact applicants directly
Support Offered Through SOAR Case Managers
- Conduct personal intakes and collect medical and psychiatric records
- Coordinate with treatment providers to gather supporting information
- Assist with completing Social Security forms and documentation
- Prepare and submit applications using the SOAR model Provide ongoing communication with Social Security and guidance after decisions are made