PWD hosting virtual events in Feb & March to help customers get help

Customers burdened by utility bills can get help from one city department.

Philadelphia Water Department (PWD) announced a series of virtual events, #UtilityFairsPHL, in February and March to help customers start an application, and fill out paperwork. The initiative, organized by PWD and in partnership with PECO and PGW, encourages residents to get help before accounts are shut off.

The moratorium on water shutoffs is set to expire on March 31, 2022 (Editor’s note: the new date is July 1, 2022.) In addition, customers with past-due water bills may be eligible for grants from the new Pennsylvania Department of Human Services Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP). Philadelphia Water Department customers may receive up to $5,000 towards delinquent water bills. 

The virtual events will be held on zoom during Wednesday evenings from 4-8 PM and select Saturdays from 10 AM – 2 PM. Customers must register to attend.

“Our one-stop application process allows customers to set up lower monthly water bills based on income, senior citizen status, and even Special Hardship situations,” said PWD Commissioner Randy E. Hayman, Esq. 

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Julie Hancher is the co-founder and Executive Director of Green Philly, an independent media organization making sustainability accessible, affordable and actionable. Since launching Green Philly in 2008, she has grown it from a passion project into a leading voice for local climate storytelling, pairing impactful journalism with community events and experiences. Julie is a frequent speaker on climate, media innovation and the future of local journalism, and is the creator of SustainPHL and EcoFair. Outside of Green Philly, you can find her hiking, biking, traveling, or exploring Philadelphia. View all posts by Julie Hancher