Need Help Paying your Bills in California?

CONSUMER ALERT! Californians Must Beware of Scammers Offering Bogus Financial Assistance

Californians should remain vigilant against scammers attempting to deceive through phone calls or text messages offering financial assistance under the Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) or Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). It is crucial to understand that both the State of California and the federal government do not provide direct grants to individuals. They will not initiate communication via phone, email, text, or social media to solicit personal or financial information. Gain further insights from CSD Consumer Alerts.

Struggling with Energy Bills? Discover the Potential Support from the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Find Out More

High-Interest Topics

California Arrearage Payment Program (CAPP)
Aid for Water Bill Payments
Assistance for Energy Bills
California Earned Income Tax Credit (CalEITC)
Services for Energy Efficiency
Alerts for Consumers

Recovery from Winter Storms

Californians Affected by Harsh Winter Weather Can Access Resources

Californians hit by a series of severe winter storms, bringing heavy rain and snow across the state, have access to aid. Close collaboration between the State of California and the federal government is in progress to provide assistance to those impacted by the storms. Upon Governor Newsom’s request, President Biden has declared a Major Disaster for counties such as Merced, Monterey, Sacramento, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Santa Cruz, with the potential for more counties to be added. This declaration activates numerous federal assistance programs for both individuals and public infrastructure.

To understand available state and federal aid types and how to seek help, visit the website of the Governor’s Office of Emergency Services.

Individuals residing in designated Major Disaster areas, such as Merced, Monterey, Sacramento, San Luis Obispo, Santa Barbara, and Santa Cruz counties, can request disaster assistance from FEMA through:

Online application at DisasterAssistance.gov
Calling 800-621-3362
Utilizing the FEMA smartphone application

Exploring Our Initiatives Check Out All CSD Programs

LIHEAP

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), funded by the federal government, extends various forms of home energy assistance to those in need. LIHEAP provides utility bill aid and supports energy efficiency enhancements for individuals and families.

Learn more about LIHEAP

CSBG

The Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) directs funding to local non-profit and public organizations to address the root causes of poverty in their communities. CSBG agencies focus on economic security by offering services targeting homelessness, hunger, unemployment, health, nutrition, emergencies, and more, as per local needs.

Learn more about CSBG

LIWP

The Low-Income Weatherization Program (LIWP) empowers low-income households with free rooftop solar photovoltaic systems and energy efficiency upgrades. This initiative aids in reducing greenhouse gas emissions and household energy expenses while promoting clean, renewable power generation.

Learn more about LIWP

Program Success Stories

Enabling Heating for Homes: LIHEAP assists a retiree like Sandra in affording home heating.
Community Efforts Against Homelessness: The Community Action Partnership of San Luis Obispo County initiates the construction of a new homeless services center, illustrating community mobilization.
Lowering Utility Bills for Renters: LIWP’s Multi-Family Energy Efficiency and Renewables program reduces high energy costs, helping families like Dana’s afford essential needs.

Important Update from Medi-Cal Medi-Cal Enrollees, Have Your Details Changed in 2 Years?

Update your contact information with your local county human services office to ensure your continued enrollment in Medi-Cal. Find your local county human services office.

Leadership Figures