Water Assistance for Low‐Income Households: Analysis of LIHWAP Performance

Abstract

Key TakeawaysThe Low‐Income Household Water Assistance Program, or LIHWAP, was initially established as a way to help low‐income water customers struggling to pay their bills during the COVID‐19 pandemic.Qualitative analysis of LIHWAP‐funded efforts across the United States evaluated successes and challenges, with case studies illustrating how the program could improve.A permanent low‐income assistance program should focus on rate reduction, infrastructure, flexibility for different needs, and program compliance.