COVID-19 has got us headed into another lockdown and for some folks, just paying the utility bill can be a problem.

The good news is that the City of Richland can help you with those bills and the deadline to apply has been extended.

If you've been impacted by COVID-19 and face hardship, The City of Richland is committed to assisting residents during the coronavirus crisis.

In a news release from the City of Richland, they say emergency funds are available to help out and all you have to do is apply to get some much-needed utility relief.

Here are the details on the relief program from the City of Richland:

Richland City Council approved the use of up to $700,000 of the City’s Coronavirus Aid Relief and Economic Security (CARES) Act funding to provide utility billing relief to eligible Richland residents and businesses that have experienced economic hardship as a result of COVID-19.

As of November 16, 2020, only a portion of the available funds has been requested. Therefore, the deadline for application has been extended to November 29, 2020.

Residents may qualify for financial assistance in the amount of up to $1,000. To determine eligibility and apply for assistance visit www.ci.richland.wa.us/myutilities and select Utility Billing Coronavirus Relief.

Applications must be received no later than November 29, 2020. If unable to complete the online application, please contact Customer Service for assistance.

Funds will be distributed on a first-come, first-serve basis, subject to eligibility, and will be applied directly to the individual's City of Richland utility account. Applicants will be notified of award status via email by December 1, 2020.

Questions can be directed to the City’s Customer Service team by emailing customerservice@ci.richland.wa.us or by calling (509) 942-1104, option 4.

More information regarding additional resources available in response to COVID-19 can be found at www.ci.richland.wa.us.

If you need help, I encourage you to apply!

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