Residents, including renters, can schedule appointments to restore water access
We are still accepting appointments for their water bill assistance program. This program is for income-eligible residents with a notice of being disconnected from their water source. Eligibility has been expanded due to the coronavirus pandemic.
“The state moratorium has been lifted on utility disconnects, so we are beginning to see an increased need for assistance,” says Kelly Hatas, Executive Director of HAPCAP. “No one should be forced into a situation where they are choosing between basic necessities like food and utilities, especially during a public health crisis. We believe that water is a basic human right and we are grateful to be able to provide this assistance and help our neighbors.”
Households must be at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines and the water bill must be in the process of disconnect or already in shut-off status. The water bill must be in the name of an eligible adult household member or in the name of a landlord or apartment complex. Residents who were previously unable to apply for assistance due to the bill being in the name of a landlord are now eligible to receive services.
The Water Bill Assistance Program is a one-time benefit where up to $750 will be pledged directly to the water company to pay the bill, late fees, reconnect fees, or other items on the bill that are required to continue service for at least 30 days. Additional items may include sewer charges or current and past bill amounts.
Documents required include the current water bill and proof of income for the last 30 days or proof of assistance through PRC, OWF, or TANF. You will also need to bring in a photo ID, social security card, or another form of identification. To make an appointment, please call 1 (800) 686-1093 or (740) 767-4500 and ask for the Water Bill Assistance Program staff.
If you would like to make a monetary contribution to this program for residents who may not meet our program’s criteria, please visit hapcap.org/give.