Welcome to
PINELLAS OPPORTUNITY COUNCIL, INC. (POC)
Our Mission
To help alleviate conditions of poverty, revitalize local communities and promote self-sufficiency by mobilizing resources to develop and implement programs that deliver an array of services to address various individual, family and community needs.
Our Programs
Youth Development Program
The POC Youth Development program is designed to equip low-income, academically talented youth 14 – 18 years of age with workforce readiness, leadership, entrepreneurship and financial literacy skills.
Emergency Home Energy Assistance Program (EHEAP)
Provides financial assistance to low-income households with at least one member 60 years of age or older experiencing a heating or cooling emergency. The Program allows for the payment to utility companies, the purchase of blankets, portable heaters and fans.
Emergency Services Program
The emergency services program provides limited financial assistance once per year to alleviate emergency crisis situations. Services are available based on funding. Persons seeking assistance should call the office in their area to set-up an appointment.
Chore Services Program
Effective January 1, 2024, Pinellas Opportunity Council, Inc. is no longer providing Chore Services. The Chore Services Program has been transferred to the Area Agency on Aging of Pasco – Pinellas, Inc. (AAAPP). Please contact AAAPP to schedule an assessment/services at 800-963-5337 or 727-217-8111.
Family Development Program
Helps participants move toward self-sufficiency through case management, life skills training, financial literacy classes, individual development accounts, job search and self-employment.
Getting Ahead Program
“Getting Ahead in a Just-Getting By World” is a 15 session evidence-based course developed by Phil DeVol. It is designed to help people in poverty think about and develop their future and create their own plan towards a stable and secure life.