Scottsdale Cares utility bill donation program

Assistance with utility and other bills is available from Scottsdale Cares. The city collects donations from the general population, and the money raised is then provided to agencies across the city and service territory. The funds raised can be used to help pay for a number of bills, ranging from energy expenses at a local shelter to help a non-profit keep their lights on.

The program is voluntary, and any dollar amount can be provided. The money can be used as a one time donation, or there can be recurring payments made as well. More details on the Scottsdale Cares program is below, but note the money will usually go directly to non-profits and not to customers.

In order to contribute, people or businesses in the city can decide to pay the grand total on their monthly bill. If they do this, up to $1 will be provided to local agencies in the city, and they will then use that money to help the less fortunate. All of the donations stay in the local region, so it is in effect helping neighbors in need.

Recurring donations can be made as well. There is an auto-pay function, and any amount can be provided. To create this, or change the dollar amount, call the company at 480-312-7400, and a customer service representative can provide more details on this process. The donation will be tax deductible, so it will not cost the person the full amount as they will get a credit on their federal and state income taxes.

Another way to contribute is to main a check to the City of Scottsdale, and reference the Scottsdale Cares program on it. They will collect the funds and provide it to the correct agencies. For information on the mailing address, call 480-312-7400.

While the funding amount will change each year as it does rely on donations, in general over $100,000 is provided to agencies each year. Most people will donate $1 per month, and that amount, or any, will help. Many businesses also will contribute to the effort, or they may decide to match any donations from their employees. As noted, the money will not go directly to low income customers but instead goes to other local groups, who then distribute the funds.

 

 

 

 

The funds can help agencies assist the disabled, seniors, or youth in the city. There can be funds raised sent to address emergency situations, such as disconnections or other needs. The uses of the funds is extensive, and a number of people have been helped over the years. The bottom line is that a donation to Scottsdale Cares will be effective at helping the less fortunate in the community.