County offers help with water bills for people in poverty

From staff reports

A new program to assist low-income residents with water utility bills has been announced by Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle and the Community and Economic Development Association of Cook County.

Cook County Board President Toni Preckwinkle

Funded with dollars provided by the American Rescue Plan Act, the Low-income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) provides financial assistance to low-income households with issues surrounding water and wastewater bills.

“We understand that during difficult times, the government needs to assist those who need it most,” Preckwinkle said. “This partnership will make sure that households in Cook County stay safe and connected to the resources they need to provide for their families.”

LIHWAP provides up to $1,500 for reconnection assistance, disconnection prevention, past-due balances, disconnection fees, and late fees. Both homeowners and renters can access the program to ease financial stress caused by water bills. The goal of the program is to help families avoid arrearages and late fees, prevent disconnection when possible and restore services in case of disconnection.

“We are thrilled to partner with Cook County on this critical initiative to ensure access to water, advance equity, and close the racial wealth gap,” said Harold Rice, President and Chief Executive Officer of CEDA. “Our organization is partnering with the County to ensure high-quality services are delivered to residents, leveraging our more than 55 years of experience, education, and local engagement.”

CEDA is accepting applications year-round for LIHWAP. To qualify, families must be income-eligible and live in Cook County. They also must be disconnected, facing disconnection, or have a past-due balance of at least $250. Families can call CEDA or visit a partner in-take site to check eligibility. To apply for the program or to learn more, residents can call 1 (800) 571-2332 or visit cedaorg.net.