The federal Low Income Household Water Assistance Program continues to draw attention, and with good reason. It is an essential element to help people get back on their feet.
New Jersey Utilities Association CEO and President Rich Henning said private regulated water utilities — those companies it calls members — have been participating in the program since its inception.
To date, NJUA member utilities have assisted over 1,000 New Jersey families through nearly $1 million in LIHWAP funding.
“Ever since President (Joe) Fiordaliso of the Board of Public Utilities gave us the heads-up about the program, our member companies have put notices about LIHWAP on the home page of their websites, run both traditional and social media ads about the program and have their customer service personnel informing customers in arrears how to obtain funding from LIHWAP,” Henning said. “They are all-in on assisting their customers in need. Moreover, they stand ready, willing and able to help the state spread the word about the program and bolster participation.”
LIHWAP is a federally funded program that provides funds to assist low-income households with water and wastewater bills.
To be eligible for LIHWAP benefits, the applicant household must be responsible for its own water and sewer costs and have a gross income that falls at or below 60% of the state Median Income level. Funds will be provided directly to the water and wastewater companies, on behalf of the residential customer. LIHWAP is not available for business accounts, estates or property management companies.
