The City of Ventura encourages low-income customers to apply for the Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) for help in paying for current or past-due water and wastewater bills. Eligible households now have until March 31, 2024, to apply while funds last. Originally slated to conclude in fall 2023, the program has received a federal extension through March 2024.
“I’m pleased to share the announcement for the extension of this assistance program,” shared Mayor Joe Schroeder. “This vital program has already provided much-needed relief to many of our residents and helps to ease the burden of water and wastewater costs for low-income families.”
Households with an income below 60 percent of the state median income, such as $103,856 for a family of four, qualify for the program. In addition, households currently participating in programs like CalFresh, CalWORKs, or the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) are eligible for LIHWAP.
Established by Congress in December 2020 during the COVID-19 pandemic, the LIHWAP was enacted to help support financially struggling low-income households to settle outstanding water and wastewater bills. Through LIHWAP, thousands of low-income residents in Ventura have already received substantial financial support, addressing both current and overdue bills.
“With this extension, more low-income households can receive relief in their utility costs,” said Ventura Water General Manager Gina Dorrington. “While we are pleased the program has been extended, it’s crucial to note that funding is limited, and assistance is granted on a first-come, first-serve basis. We encourage residents and families to apply as soon as possible to take advantage of this opportunity for financial assistance.”
The LIHWAP is administered by the California Department of Community Services and Development (CSD). To learn more about the program and apply by March 2024, visit www.csd.ca.gov/WaterBill.
