Gov. Beshear Announces Up To $38 Million Available For Utility Assistance

Tuesday, January 26, 2021 at 10:48 AM

By Kacie Jackson

The funding is being made available to help Kentuckians with overdue utility bills.

(Frankfort, Ky.) – Governor Andy Beshear announced yesterday that millions of dollars are being made available in Kentucky for utility bill assistance.

Up to $38 million is available to local governments to help Kentuckians with their overdue utility bills in their jurisdiction.

The Department for Local Government will administer the funding from the Community Development Block Grant Coronavirus Response program established by the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development.

Local units of government are able to request up to $200,000 for assistance in their communities.

“Even with our victory over COVID-19 coming into sight, times are still tough for our families,” said Gov. Beshear. “We are grateful to be able to provide these funds because they will ensure many Kentuckians won’t have to make the impossible choice between feeding their family and keeping the lights on.”

To apply, local governments must submit an application to DLG. If they are approved, local governments must then partner with a community action agency to assist with funding administration.

Households will then be eligible for up to $250 per month for six consecutive months if they meet the following requirements:

They live in a city of the county approved funding
Are struggling to pay water, sewage, electric, gas, or other heating and cooling bills
Have been financially impacted by COVID-19
Have received notice for disconnect between January 21, 2020, and present-day and/or up-to two months following.

Once a household’s application is approved, the local nonprofit community service provider will then transfer funds directly to a utility provider on their behalf.

Kentuckians should contact their local government or ADD for more information on CDBG-CV funds in their area.

Northern Kentucky’s Area Development District is located at 22 Spiral Drive in Florence. For more information, call 859-283-1885 or visit www.nkadd.org.