Utility Assistance Available

From the Commercial Appeal:

City sets aside $2.5 million to help needy citizens pay MLGW bills
By Amos Maki

Originally published 11:21 a.m., April 8, 2008

The city of Memphis has set aside $2.5 million to help low-income citizens struggling with high utility bills who do not qualify for existing programs.

The city will award eligible families up to $500 per heating and cooling season toward their MLGW bill. The families will never receive a check from the city. Instead, the city money will be applied directly toward their utility bill in a “one-stop-shop” that will handle applications, screening and then the electronic transfer of city funds to MLGW.

“The city can not afford to not help people in need,” Mayor Willie Herenton said.

To qualify, people must have income that falls between 151 percent and 175 percent of the federal government’s poverty income guidelines and have received a service interruption notice. Applicants must also be prepared to pay the outstanding balance after the $500 contribution from the city.

“In certain key areas of the year there is a higher utilization of utility services than in others and it disproportionately impacts people that are elderly and people that are poor,” said Herenton.

A family of four would have to have an income of between $32,012 and $37,100 to qualify.

Help is available by appointment only. To schedule an appointment, call 575-7200.