LIHWAP NEW Households in Cumberland County that had their water services cut off or have received notice that their water services are in danger of being cut off can apply for assistance in paying their bill through a new federal program called the Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP). 

LIHWAP is a temporary emergency program that will help eligible households and families afford water and wastewater services. The temporary program provides a one-time payment for eligible low-income households directly to the utility company. 

Households that currently receive Food and Nutrition Services (FNS), Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or Work First services, or those that received Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) services between Oct. 1, 2020, and Sept. 30, 2021, are automatically eligible to receive this benefit.

“This program will assist Cumberland County residents keep their water service running for proper hygiene and better health,” Heather Skeens, Department of Social Services Director, said in a press release.

All other households that have lost water services or are in danger of losing service can apply online at www.epass.nc.gov. Individuals can also apply by printing a paper application from www.epass.nc.gov and dropping it off at a drop box outside the Cumberland County Department of Social Services, 1225 Ramsey Street in Fayetteville, or by faxing it to (910) 677-2885 or by calling (910) 677-2983 to apply by phone.

All households that are not in danger of losing their water service can apply for assistance if they meet the eligibility requirements. To be eligible for the LIHWAP program, a household must have at least one U.S. citizen or non-citizen and:

  • Has income equal to or less than 150% of the federal poverty level,
  • Has household services that are disconnected and are in jeopardy of disconnection or have a current outstanding bill
  • Is responsible for the water bill

For more information on this program and eligibility, visit the LIHWAP website.

LIHWAP runs through September 2023 or until the funds run out.

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