Financial distress can have devastating effects on individuals and families. When faced with difficult financial situations, it’s not uncommon for the loss of jobs, homes, cars, retirement accounts, personal belongings, and savings. The stress and fear of financial hardship and the resulting loss can have emotional and physical impacts.
The Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner’s Hardship Assistance Program is an initiative aimed at providing temporary relief and support in the form of water bill assistance to individuals or families experiencing financial or personal hardships. The program recognizes that unforeseen circumstances or challenges can arise, impacting a person’s ability to meet basic needs.
The WRC saw the importance of not leaving out those who are experiencing financial hardship, but who don’t meet the requirements of existing low-income water bill programs. This population of households can be referred to as ALICE (Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed). ALICE represents those who are working yet still struggling to make ends meet. So, we crafted a program that will be funded from both public and private donations and benefit households across Oakland County. The ALICE report focuses on key expenses in a budget including housing, childcare, food, transportation, health care, technology and taxes. More details on the United Way of Southeastern Michigan Alice report can be found here.
- 31% of households in Oakland County fall below the ALICE threshold.
- 9% of Oakland County households fall beneath the federal poverty level.
- The remaining 22% do not have incomes high enough to cover what the ALICE report considers a survival budget.
Figure 1: Michigan Association of United Ways Alice Project Findings
Individuals or families facing financial or personal hardships, such as loss of income, medical emergencies, or other crises, are typically eligible to apply for water bill assistance. Specific eligibility criteria may vary based on the program’s guidelines through our service partner United Way for Southeastern Michigan.
Figure 2 Breakdown of WRC Hardship Assistance Program
Oakland County residents share their thoughts on helping and supporting people who fall on hard times:
The Hardship Assistance Program is a vital resource for those in need, providing a safety net during challenging times and facilitating a pathway to stability and self-sufficiency. It aims to address both immediate needs and long-term solution. The program is funded by both public and private donations and you can contribute by clicking here.
Written by Water Affordability Coordinator Demar Byas.
The Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner’s Office is dedicated to protecting public health and safety, preserving natural resources and a healthy environment, maintaining reliable, high-quality service, ensuring the value of investment and contributing to economic prosperity. To learn more about the Oakland County Water Resources Commissioner Jim Nash’s Office and his work, follow along with them on Facebook and LinkedIn.
Follow along with Oakland County on Facebook, Instagram, LinkedIn, Pinterest, Twitter, and YouTube using #OaklandCounty, or visit our website for news and events year-round.