Utility Grant Program

UESF provides financial assistance to low-income individuals and families who are facing utility terminations or who have had their utilities shut off. PECO and the Philadelphia Water Department match each dollar we provide.

The Utility Grant program is designed to bring a customer’s delinquent account up to date. UESF’s financial assistance, the matching utility bill credit, and any contribution by the individual must zero out the utility bill. Families and individuals are eligible to apply for assistance every two years.

To be eligible for a utility grant, your total household income must be at or below 150% percent for Peco assistance and 300% percent of the current federal poverty guidelines for PWD assistance. Eligibility will be determined at the time of application.

To be eligible for the Utility Grant Program, individuals and families must:

  • Have a notice of termination or be off service for PECO.
  • Have a notice of termination or be behind $75 or more.
  • Be a Philadelphia residents.
  • Have not received a UGP grant in the past 24 months for water and 12 months for Peco.
  • During LIHEAP season, have applied for LIHEAP Cash and Crisis program first, before coming to UESF.
  • Owe an amount that is not in excess of the utility grant, $1250 for Peco, and $3000 for PWD. All grants must be applied to the utility account and reach a zero balance. If the amount surpasses the maximum grant allowed, the applicant is responsible for the difference at the time he/she is approved..

MEAF Assistance Eligibility

To be eligible, a residential customer must meet all the following criteria:

  • Total household income at or below 200% of the federal poverty income guidelines
  • Must service is in imminent danger of termination or has already been terminated
  • Grant must bring the balance to zero – this can be met along with a customer payment and/or other grants.
  • Has not received MEAF assistance in the past 12 months.

The Matching Energy Assistance Fund (MEAF) is PECO’s hardship program that provides emergency, financial assistance to low-income customers facing a crisis.  All contributions made to MEAF are matched by PECO, dollar for dollar. 

For more information or to find out if you qualify, contact:
BAC@uesfacts.org

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