Top 10 Churches That Help With Utility Bills

Church-based utility assistance programs exist to help homes stay safe, warm, and connected. Although each church operates differently, the mission remains the same – to serve those in need without judgment.

Electricity, gas and water are not luxuries – they are necessities. Many churches receive donations, grants, and community funds specifically to help struggling families with their needs.

Thankfully, churches that help with utility bills provide a powerful lifeline during difficult times. When shut-off notices come, these non-profit organisations step in to offer genuine financial assistance.

Churches That Help With Utility Bills

Here is a list of churches and nonprofit resources that offer free electric bills, power bills, water bills, etc, especially during the colder months, including heater bills. If you’re struggling to pay any kind of bill, then explore the listed resources to get help now:

The Salvation Army

The Salvation Army provides emergency assistance such as rental assistance, food, utility assistance, and shelter programs. Assistance is usually given through local centers depending on need and available funds.

Catholic Charities

Catholic Charities helps low-income families with rental assistance, housing counselling, meal programs, and other services. Services are open to all regardless of religious background.

St. Vincent de Paul Society

This church-based organisation provides direct financial assistance for rent, utilities, and basic needs. Assistance is often provided after a brief interview with local parish volunteers.

United Methodist Church (UMC)

Many United Methodist churches run community outreach programs that help with rent, food, and emergency expenses. Support varies by location and is often coordinated through church offices.

Lutheran Social Services

Lutheran Social Services provides housing assistance, homelessness prevention, and financial assistance programs. They work closely with families facing eviction or financial hardship.

Episcopal Church Outreach Programs

Episcopal churches often help with emergency rent, utility bills, and referrals to housing resources. Help is typically offered through parish-based outreach ministries.

Presbyterian Church (USA)

Presbyterian churches support community members through benevolence funds, food pantries, and rent assistance programs. Aid is usually short-term and need-based.

Church of the Nazarene

Many Nazarene churches offer compassionate ministries that include help with rent, food, and crisis support. Assistance depends on church resources and local need.

Assemblies of God Churches

Assemblies of God churches often help families through emergency financial aid, food distribution, and community support services—some churches also partner with local nonprofits.

Baptist Churches (Local Associations)

Baptist churches often help with rent, utilities, and basic needs through philanthropy funds. Assistance is usually offered to residents following an application or meeting.

These are the top-listed churches that offer free church bill assistance programs for you.

• Also read: Churches that Help with Power Bills

Types of Utility Bills Covered by Churches

Churches often provide emergency assistance to families struggling with basic living expenses. While assistance varies by location and available funds, many churches typically help with the following utility bills:

• Electricity Bills: Help to prevent power outages or restore service.

• Water and Sewer Bills: Help maintain access to clean water and sanitation.

• Gas Bills: Assistance with heating, cooking or hot water needs.

• Heating Fuel Bills: Assistance for oil, propane, or kerosene during cold weather.

• Trash and Sanitation Fees: Help with required municipal waste services.

• Internet Bills: Limited assistance for basic Internet used for work, school or for benefit access.

• Phone Bills: Support for essential landline or mobile phone services.

• Past-Due Utility Balances: Help pay overdue amounts to avoid disconnection.

These are the few types of assistance programs that you may get.

Also read: Assistance Paying Water Bill

List of Free Churches That Help With Utilities Near Me

Churches	Address	Phone No.
The Salvation Army Corps Community Center	2718 S Memorial Dr, Greenville, NC 27834	(252) 756-3388
Robeson County Church and Community Center	600 W 5th St, Lumberton, NC 28358	(910) 738-5204
Greensboro Urban Ministry	305 W Gate City Blvd, Greensboro, NC 27406	(336) 271-5959
Catholic Charities – Tar River Region	1746 Union St, Greenville, NC 27834	(252) 355-5111
Salvation Army Virginia Peninsula	1033 Big Bethel Rd, Hampton, VA 23666	(757) 838-4875
Religious Community Services	919 George St, New Bern, NC 28560	(252) 633-2767
Wesley Community Service Center	1701 Elm Ave, Portsmouth, VA 23704	(757) 399-0541
THRIVE Peninsula	12749 Nettles Dr, Newport News, VA 23606	(757) 877-6211
Churches Outreach Network	1206 Evans St, Greenville, NC 27834	(252) 717-9600
Community Unity Network	1206 Evans St #25, Greenville, NC 27834	(877) 218-4247

Who is Eligible to Get Free Utility Bill Assistance?

People who are suffering from financial conditions are only eligible to get help. Here are the common eligibility requirements listed:

• Low-Income Households

Families and people with incomes below a certain threshold, often based on federal or state poverty guidelines, are generally eligible.

• Seniors on Fixed Income

Older adults living on Social Security, pensions or limited retirement income often qualify for utility assistance programs.

• Disabled People

People with physical or mental disabilities may receive priority assistance, especially if medical equipment requires electricity.

• Families With Children

Households with minor children are often given priority to prevent utility shutoffs that could affect health and safety.

• Unemployed or Underemployed People

People who have lost a job, had reduced work hours, or experienced a sudden income loss may be eligible for emergency assistance.

• People Facing Utility Shutoff Notices

People with past due bills or active disconnection notices are generally eligible for emergency assistance.

If you need to know the specific eligibility, then you have to contact the churches directly, as different churches have different eligibility requirements.

How to Get Free Grants to Pay Bills?

To get free grants to pay bills, follow the steps that are described here:

✔️Apply for Government Assistance Programs

Programs like LIHEAP, SNAP, TANF and Local Emergency Assistance Programs help cover utilities, food and basic living expenses. Apply through your state or local benefits office.

✔️Contact Churches and Nonprofit Organisations

Many churches and charities offer emergency grants for rent, utilities, medical bills and other essentials. Reach out to local organisations and ask about one-time assistance programs.

✔️Visit Community Action Agencies

Community action agencies provide bill assistance, energy assistance, and crisis grants to low-income families. They can also connect you to other local resources.

✔️Check Utility Company Assistance Programs

Many utility companies offer hardship grants, payment plans or forgiveness programs. Contact customer service or visit their website to apply.

✔️Use 211 or Local Help Lines

Call 211 or visit your local 211 website to find free grants and bill assistance programs near you. This service connects you with verified local resources.

✔️Apply Early and Prepare Documents

Have proof of income, ID, utility bill, lease agreement and hardship statement ready. Applying early increases your chances, as many grants are limited and first-come, first-served.

Follow the steps and apply for the assistance now.

Conclusion

When bills pile up, and options feel limited, churches that help with utility bills offer more than money – they offer assistance. From national organisations to small local congregations, these programs exist to keep families safe, warm, and connected. If you’re struggling, don’t wait. Immediately ask for help and take the first step towards sustainability.