After the City Council passed one of the largest tax increases on water this month, the City of Phoenix will now be offering assistance for federal workers affected by the government shutdown who have residential water accounts with the City of Phoenix.
Up to $400 per year will be available for each qualifying water customer through Project Assist.
Funds for this special assistance will come from Project Assist, an existing program administered through the Human Services Department.
Typically, eligibility for help through Project Assist is based on income, but the City of Phoenix is temporarily waiving that requirement for residents affected by the government shutdown for water bill assistance.
Eligible households interested in requesting assistance should call the nearest Phoenix Family Services Center beginning next week to make an appointment for assistance. For more information on how to make an appointment for assistance, visit phoenix.gov/humanservices.
To qualify, at least one member of the household must be a federal employee affected by the shutdown, and individuals will be asked to provide proof (government ID and/or paystub). Assistance will be offered through the shutdown and for two months following the reopening of the government.
Human Services offers additional assistance beyond water bills for those who meet the income requirements. To learn about the additional assistance services offered and for a location of a Family Services Center, visit phoenix.gov/humanservices.
Project Assist is funded through the Water Services Department and donations from water customers. Customers who are interested in donating to the fund can do so at time of payment either online or by mail.