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, the Philadelphia Gas Works, 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 175 percent of the current federal poverty guidelines. Eligibility will be determined at the time of application.

Click here for UESF’s network of Utility Grant neighborhood intake sites to find one near you.

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

  • Have a notice of termination or be off service for PECO, PGW or PWD.
  • Be Philadelphia residents.
  • Have not received a UGP grant in the past 24 months.
  • Have not received a MEAF grant in the past 12 months.
  • 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. 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 balance.
  • Be at or below 200% of Federal Poverty Level (to be determined at the time of application).

GGAP 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
  • Service is in imminent danger of termination or has already been terminated.
  • Grant must bring the balance to zero – this can be met with a customer payment and/or other grants.
  • Has not received GGAP assistance in the past 24 months.

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.

For more information or to find out if you qualify, contact:
215.814.6837  | utility@uesfacts.org

Check your eligibility

Take a screening test to find out how we can help you.