The prolonged California drought has brought about many problems for the state, one of which is the high cost of utilities. With water and electricity prices skyrocketing, low to middle-income households are struggling to keep up with their utility payments. To help alleviate this burden, the City of Los Angeles has implemented several Los Angeles utility assistance programs to provide aid to its residents.

Here are some of the utility assistance programs available in Los Angeles:

1. Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

   LIHEAP provides assistance to low-income households struggling with their energy bills. The program offers financial assistance for gas and electric bills, energy crisis intervention, and weatherization services to reduce energy consumption. To qualify, the applicant must be a U.S. citizen or a qualified alien, have a low income, and reside in Los Angeles County.

2. Family Electric Rate Assistance (FERA

   FERA is a program that provides a discounted electric rate to households with three or more people living in the same household, and whose income falls within 200% of the federal poverty guidelines. To qualify, the applicant must be a customer of the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) and meet the income requirements.

3. Lifeline Program

   The Lifeline Program offers a discount on phone and internet services to eligible low-income households. To qualify, the applicant must have a household income at or below 135% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines or participate in certain public assistance programs.

4. Water Bill Assistance Program

   The City of Los Angeles Department of Water and Power offers a Water Bill Assistance Program to help low-income customers with their water bills. To qualify, the applicant must be a customer of LADWP and meet the income requirements.

5. Gas Company Bill Assistance Program

   The Gas Company Bill Assistance Program provides a one-time grant of up to $200 to eligible customers to help pay their gas bills. To qualify, the applicant must have a household income that is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

In conclusion, the City of Los Angeles has implemented several utility assistance programs to help low to middle-income households cope with the high cost of utilities. These programs provide much-needed relief to those who are struggling to keep up with their utility bills. If you or someone you know is in need of assistance, be sure to check out these programs and see if you qualify.