The Utility Emergency Services Fund was founded in 1983 after several tragic deaths to Philadelphia residents due to excessive heat in the summer and frigid cold in the winter. UESF rose from the idea of area community leaders to help low income households in financial trouble with their utility bills. Through their partnership with PECO Energy, the Philadelphia Gas Works and the Philadelphia Water Department, UESF has been able to help over 320,000 people.Offering a unique service of emergency financial assistance, clients can apply for grants of $500 to reach a zero balance with their bill. All of UESF's clients must have their service terminated or have notice of shut off status. With UESF's partnership with the three major utility companies, a dollar for dollar match is made to reach the $500 total. Clients are responsible for any arrearage that exists above that total.With this second chance, UESF also promotes independence among its clients. When a person is granted support, they are then only able to apply for further assistance after a two-year period.By giving low-income households an opportunity to start anew, UESF provides the chance for a better situation. With increased costs for utilities skyrocketing in the past few years, UESF is able to meet the challenge of keeping the lights on, the house warm and the water running. These are basic needs that are vital to survival.The clients that UESF provides assistance for are low-income families within 175% of the federal poverty income guideline. According to recent LIHEAP statistics, more than 230,000 families in Philadelphia are below that watermark. While this number continues to steadily increase, more families look to other sources like UESF for assistance.
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