Project RELIEF: Springfield’s Lifeline for Struggling Utility Customers

City Water, Light, and Power (CWLP) customers in the Springfield area have a critical lifeline available next month with the Project RELIEF program.

Designed to help residents avoid utility shut-offs, this program offers financial assistance for water or electric bills to those in need.

If you or someone you know is facing difficulty keeping up with utility payments, here’s how to take advantage of this initiative.
 

What Is Project RELIEF?

Project RELIEF is a financial assistance program funded by donations from CWLP customers and city employees.

Each year, CWLP raises $25,000 to support this vital resource.

Administered by Fifth Street Renaissance, the program ensures that 100% of donated funds go directly to customers in need.

Eligible participants can receive financial support to cover past-due utility bills, giving them a chance to maintain essential services during tough times.
 

Eligibility Requirements

To qualify for Project RELIEF, applicants must meet the following criteria:

• Have a past-due CWLP bill and, if necessary, the ability to contribute toward a portion of the owed amount.
• Total household income from the past 90 days must not exceed 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
• Must not have received Project RELIEF assistance during the 2023–2024 program season.
• Must have exhausted all other assistance options, including the state’s Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

Note: Customers who only have CWLP water service are not required to apply for LIHEAP before seeking Project RELIEF support.
 

How to Apply

Starting December 2, eligible customers can begin the application process by calling 217-789-2414. Qualified applicants will be scheduled for a meeting with Fifth Street Renaissance to finalize their enrollment.

For those who haven’t yet applied for LIHEAP, call 535-3120 to begin the application process.
 

How to Donate to Project RELIEF

Generosity from the Springfield community powers this program. CWLP customers can easily contribute by adding $1 or more to their monthly utility bill or through city employee payroll deductions.

If you’d like to make a one-time donation, you can mail a check or money order payable to Project RELIEF at:
Fifth Street Renaissance
1315 N. Fifth Street
Springfield, IL 62702

Other Resources for Financial Assistance

In addition to Project RELIEF, CWLP customers can explore other programs to help manage utility costs:

• LIHEAP: A federally funded program that offers energy cost assistance for low-income households. Visit the LIHEAP website for more details.
• CWLP Payment Plans: Contact CWLP to discuss flexible payment arrangements that can ease financial strain.

For full details on Project RELIEF and other assistance programs, visit the CWLP website.

A Community Effort to Keep the Lights On

Project RELIEF showcases the power of community support, ensuring Springfield residents have access to essential utilities during challenging times.

Whether you’re in need or looking to contribute, this program is a meaningful way to strengthen your community and provide relief where it’s needed most.

Previous article: Apply Starting November 18: Low-Income Energy Assistance Program for Winter Heating Costs

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