Utility assistance fair set in McKeesport
Pennsylvania American Water will host the free event April 15 at the McKeesport Palisades.
For the MVI
Pennsylvania American Water will hold a Utility Assistance and Resource Fair from 3:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. April 15 at the McKeesport Palisades, 100 Fifth Ave., McKeesport.
More than 4,500 Pennsylvania American Water wastewater customers in the Mon Valley are likely eligible for monthly bill discounts, annual grants, and arrearage forgiveness. The company is working to help all eligible customers enroll in the program.
“We’re teaming up with other organizations serving McKeesport and surrounding areas to provide resources under one roof for residents seeking utility assistance,” said Tawana Dean, senior manager of customer advocacy for Pennsylvania American Water. “A quick stop at the event could save income-eligible customers up to 85% on their wastewater bill alone.”
Community organizations, state and local officials and representatives of utilities serving the McKeesport area will be on site to provide information, answer questions and enroll customers in assistance programs. Customers should bring income verification documents and their last two utility bills. Light refreshments will be provided.
The following utilities, organizations and government offices will participate in this free resource fair: Pennsylvania American Water, Dollar Energy Fund, Peoples Natural Gas, Duquesne Light Company, Holy Family Institute, Salvation Army, Greater Pittsburgh Community Food Bank, Pittsburgh Regional Transit, Environmental Justice Table, state Rep. Dan Goughnour, state Sen. Nick Pisciottano, City of McKeesport.
“It’s important for McKeesport residents, especially those on a fixed income, to be aware of any options they have for assistance,” said McKeesport Mayor Tom Maglicco. “A resource fair is the perfect opportunity for community members to learn about available programs at a one-stop-shop for utility information, as well as state and city services.”
Pennsylvania American Water serves more than 10,400 wastewater customers in McKeesport and Duquesne, Port Vue, Dravosburg and a portion of West Mifflin.
Through its H2O Help to Others Program, Pennsylvania American Water provides income-eligible customers with grants of up to $500 per year for each water and wastewater service, bill discounts and water-saving devices and education and helps customers pay off past due balances through its new arrearage forgiveness offering. The company can also help customers like with budget billing, installment plans, customer-preferred due dates and protections for customers experiencing medical emergencies or domestic violence.
Customers at or below 250% of the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines qualify for assistance through the H2O Help to Others Program. Additional information is available at pennsylvaniaamwater. com/H2O, by attending this or other local assistance events or by contacting Dollar Energy, the program administrator, at 888-282-6816.
