RICHMOND, Va. -- Residents who are facing economic hardship due to the COVID-19 pandemic can now apply for utility relief assistance in the City of Richmond.
The COVID-19 Municipal Utility Relief Program is for Richmond Department of Public Utilities customers who have fallen behind on their utility bills as a result of these hardships.
The program, funded by the CARES ACT, is accepting applications through January 17.
"Funding is designed to be a one‐time opportunity, with one payment per household or business," said city officials in a press release. "This assistance is in addition to the moratorium suspending disconnections issued by the City in early March, which remains in effect."
“I am thankful for Governor Northam’s leadership and his continued efforts to keep all Virginians safe during the pandemic,” said Mayor Stoney. “This allocation of funds for utility relief highlights our commitment to public health and safety, and this assistance will go a long way in helping our customers that have been hit hardest to recover from the financial impacts of the pandemic.”
To be eligible for this program, applicants must meet the following criteria:
· Be a customer of the City of Richmond Department of Public Utilities with active utility service;
· Have experienced/been impacted by an economic hardship due to COVID-19;
· Have fallen behind on their City water, wastewater or natural gas utility bill for services during the period of March 1, 2020 through December 30, 2020;
· Have not received any other forms of local relief or financial assistance for their City utility services; AND
· Submit a completed application where all information is valid and legible. Please read instructions carefully. Your application must be received by midnight Sunday, January 17, 2021.
Eligible customers are encouraged to apply immediately.
Customers may also request an application via email to DPUCares@richmondgov.com or pick one up at any of the following locations:
· City Hall | 900 E. Broad Street, Room 115
· East District Initiative | 701 N. 25th Street
· Southside Community Services Center | 4100 Hull Street