The utility assistance program is a one-time assistance program that helps low and moderate-income individuals and families with utility payment assistance. Funding for the program is provided by the federal LIHEAP (Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program) and the City of Riverside SHARE (Sharing Households Assist Riverside’s Energy). Those receiving utility assistance also receive energy conservation education.


SHARE or LIHEAP: Which is for you?
SHARE is funded by the City of Riverside and is specifically for Riverside Public Utilities customers. LIHEAP is a federally-funded program that is implemented by the State. CAP Riverside administers both programs. SHARE customers may also apply for LIHEAP. All other utility customers should fill out a LIHEAP application. (Please note that SHARE eligibility is determined by different income guidelines than LIHEAP, and should be submitted in person at the following office location: 2038 Iowa Ave., Suite B-102, Riverside, CA 92507)

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance program is called LIHEAP. They assist low income people and families with their heating and cooling bills. This program is therefore, a year long program that is available 12 months a year. To qualify for the LIHEAP assistance, you need to qualify. We provide the current Federal Poverty Rates nationwide below.

You are automatically qualified for LIHEAP assistance if you participate in the SNAP food stamps program, TANF Temporary Assistance for Needy Families, or the SSI program through Social Security.

Federal Poverty Guidelines for 2024

Persons In Family	Earnings (100% Fed Poverty Guideline)
1	$15,060
2	$20,440
3	$25,820
4	$31,200
5	$36,580
6	$41,960
7	$47,340
8	$52,720

*Alaska and Hawaii have different rates for HUD federal poverty guidelines.
These numbers above represent 100% of the Federal Poverty Rate. In order to get legal aid from some offices, they use a sliding fee scale. When they use a sliding fee scale, the 100% rate can be different than 100%. In those cases, using for example a 200% federal poverty level, you will only need double the 100% number listed above to 200%.

User questions & answers

Have you used the Mecca CAP Utility Assistance Program service before? If so, please help our website users by answer these questions below.