04 May Care to Share: Together We Can Help Maintain a Vital Service for our Neighbors in Need
Assistance with Utility Bills
An immediate and growing need is for financial assistance with utility bills so that people who are having trouble making ends meet can continue to have access to clean water and electricity.
Beginning on March 12, 2020, the Orange Water and Sewer Authority (OWASA) temporarily suspended all disconnects due to non-payment in order to protect the community. That step has provided people access to clean water as the community has sheltered in place.
Subsequently, on March 31, 2020, Governor Cooper prohibited utilities – including water, electric, and gas – from disconnecting people who are unable to pay for 60 days.
During that time, OWASA has seen past due accounts increase by more than 70 percent. As the crisis continues that number is expected to rise.
Care to Share
While there are many opportunities to support one another, the Giving Tuesday campaign in our area began with a call to donate to the Care to Share water bill assistance program of the Orange Water and Sewer Authority (OWASA). On Tuesday, May 5, Chapel Hill Mayor Pam Hemminger and Carrboro Mayor Lydia Lavelle are inviting communities to participate in a global day of giving and unity, Giving Tuesday Now.
Care to Share funds are administered by the Inter-Faith Council for Social Service, in partnership with OWASA. A gift of $10 added to your water bill each month will provide emergency assistance for households impacted by this crisis. Or a lump sum donation of $150 will help a family in Chapel Hill or Carrboro pay off two monthly water bills
- If you are able, please give to Care to Share.
- If you need help paying your OWASA bill, please contact OWASA’s Customer Service (919-537-4343), and we can connect you to resources to assist.
- For additional ways you can contribute, visit www.townofchapelhill.org/coronavirus and access Helping Others in Our Community.