City offers special utility assistance for low-income seniors and disabled residents

The City of St. Louis Department of Human Services is extending the application period for its special utility assistance for City residents who are at risk of having gas or electric utilities disconnected and who are 60 and older or disabled. Eligibility is based on residency within the City of St. Louis, utility services being at risk of disconnection, and income.

The Department of Human Services has allocated unused funds from a Housing and Urban Development grant that will now be used to assist with utility assistance. Each household may be eligible for up to $1,000. Individuals will be required to produce proof of City residency, a valid ID, a social security card, proof of income from all members of the household, and proof of past due utility bills for service dates before May 30, 2012.  Applications will be accepted from July 2 – July 13, 2012.

“We want to make sure that some of the City’s most vulnerable residents – those with disabilities and those 60 and older – are able to stay safe and cool during the hot summer months,” said Mayor Slay.  “The funds are part of the City’s ongoing efforts to prevent homelessness. Over 800 households with disabled or senior residents have been assisted – and we hope to assist about 1000 more. I urge qualified individuals to submit applications soon so we can prevent utility disconnection.”

To apply, individuals must call the United Way by dialing 2-1-1 or 1-800-427-4626. Applications will be available and accepted only at the Department of Human Services, 1^st floor, 1520 Market Street, St. Louis, MO, 63103, from 8:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m. The deadline for applying for assistance is noon on Friday, July 13, 2012.

Documents

• Utility Assistance Application