Water Assistance Program for Low-Income Households

Wonder Lake Community Resources

Gov. Pritzker Announces $42 Million Water Assistance Program for Low-Income Households

To help low-income families unable to pay water and sewer bills avoid shutoffs, Governor JB Pritzker and DCEO recently announced the new $42 million Low-Income Household Water Assistance Plan (LIHWAP), under the Help Illinois Families (HIF) initiative.

LIHWAP recognizes the immense economic toll that the COVID-19 pandemic has taken on residents statewide. Households are finding it difficult to keep up with their utility bills, including water and sewer bills. The new funds are being made available to low-income families who are facing disconnection, those who have already been shut off, or those currently facing arrearages of $250 or more.

Eligibility for LIHWAP, like LIHEAP and other household assistance programs offered by the state, is income dependent. To be eligible, Illinois families must demonstrate that they are within 200 percent of the federal poverty line. For a family of four, this means combined income of $54,000 or less. To find out if you are eligible, please visit helpillinoisfamilies.com. LIHWAP applications will be accepted now through August 31, 2023 or until funds are exhausted.

Families have several options when seeking water and utility assistance funds. Eligible applicants can visit DCEO's website http://helpillinoisfamilies.com to fill out a request for service form, can contact the hotline at 1-833-711-0374

Download the attached notice for more details.

Contact the hotline service at 1-833-711-0374