Westerville Helps

The City of Westerville is calling for residents to help connect neighbors in need with assistance programs.

In February, the City announced that it was expanding a financial assistance program that long existed in Parks & Recreation for reduced to waived program fees to other public services, including utility bills, sidewalk maintenance and home improvements.

“We know there are families in the City who could take advantage of these programs, but may not be aware. We’re doing everything in our power to make the application process easy to navigate because we believe in the power of these programs,” said JR Fourqurean, Utility Billing Supervisor.

Over the years, approximately 200 people have taken advantage of funding for programming through Westerville Parks and Recreation. Funds exist to help many more people.

“We can’t underestimate the importance of these recreational programs for social and physical health,” said Randy Auler, Parks and Recreation Director. “It’s possible that there are families and individuals out there who simply have never considered these programs could be an option for them because of economic restrictions.”

Now that the financial assistance has expanded to other programs, more individuals in Westerville may be able to get the help they need.

If you know someone who could qualify for financial assistance programs, encourage them to visit www.westerville.org/helps.

PARKS & RECREATION UTILITIES PROPERTY IMPROVEMENT

AMOUNT/CAP of CREDIT

$100 per person/year and $500 per family/year $500 per calendar year - can be used in one month, or over several

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

Eligible towards programs and membership passes; residents only. Federal Poverty Guidelines for the National School Lunch Program. Past due utility bills only.

Only residents (no C&I). Tenant or Owner-Occupied. Not intended for water leaks* 50% up to $1,500 CREDIT only OR 5 year, 0% interest property assessment

*Income and Property Req. Single Family. Owner Occupied. Owned for 12 months. All taxes current.

FUNDING SOURCE

APPLICATION DEADLINE

Parks Foundation (Bunny Hop)

Ongoing Electric: $1 per month. Opt-in.

Ongoing General Fund

April 1 of each year

Find more information at www.westerville.org/helps.