Problem Statement: Many households are unaware of the resources and assistance available through the City of Santa Rosa Water Department that can assist eligible households in paying a portion of their water bill and making their household more water-efficient. A more water-efficient household can not only save valuable natural resources but can result in reducing their overall monthly water bill.
Goal of the Program: Help 2 Others (H20) program provides financial assistance and water-use efficiency improvement for individuals having difficulty paying their water bills.
Primary Activities:
H2O applicants are required to participate in a free Water-Use Efficiency Audit performed by Santa Rosa Water’s water efficiency experts. These experts may provide:
- Free water-saving devices (e.g. high-efficiency showerheads and aerators)
- Help detecting costly plumbing leaks
- Offer up ways to save water and reduce usage charges
- Staff will assess the participant’s eligibility for a number of available rebates and programs for replacing inefficient fixtures with high-efficiency models (as available).
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION:
H2O assistance is effective for one full year from the date the participant is approved. Participants must renew each year to continue in the program. Individuals in need of assistance can receive a reduction on a portion of their monthly water and sewer service charges:
- 100% off* the monthly fixed service charge for water
- 100% off* the monthly fixed service charge for sewer
*Approximately $38 discount per month (estimated savings based on 2019 water and sewer service charges)
Please note: All H2O participants will still pay the full amount of any water and sewer usage charges incurred. Applications are accepted until funds are exhausted and a waiting list will be maintained.
ELIGIBILITY
- The water and sewer bill must be in your name.
- You must be a full time resident at the address where the discount will be received.
- You must only have one water service account with Santa Rosa Water.
- You may not be claimed as a dependent on another person’s tax return.
- You must pay your bills by the due date.
- Your total combined household gross income must not exceed the current H O Income Guidelines.
- You must participate in a Water-Use Efficiency Audit to be enrolled in the program.
- Your water use should not exceed the acceptable range of daily water use per household occupant as determined by Santa Rosa Water.
- You must provide access to all water-using areas/ fixtures on the property including any basement areas, in-law units, and landscaped areas at the time of Water-Use Efficiency Audit.
- You agree that if a water leak occurs at your residence, you will make timely repairs.
- You must notify Santa Rosa Water immediately if your household no longer qualifies for the discount.
- You must renew your complete eligibility application each year.
There are set program income guidelines. Please see the Santa Rosa city website for specific income guidelines.
How to apply?
Gather the following documents and submit an intake through our CAP Kiosk or call our main office for assistance at (707) 544-6911.
- A Copy of your water bill
- Income verification documents
- Photo ID
Outcome Highlights:
- 140 households assisted in 2022
Contact Information:
- Program Coordinator: Evelyn Linares
Phone 707-544-6911 x 1201
elinares@capsonoma.org
