Celebrating 35 Years of H2O Help to Others in Pennsylvania: A Lifeline for Families

Pennsylvania American Water's H2O Help to Others Program: A Legacy of Support

This fall marks a significant milestone for Pennsylvania American Water as it celebrates 35 years of its low-income customer assistance program, H2O Help to Others. Established in 1991, this pioneering initiative has consistently strived to ensure access to essential water services for families facing financial hardships.

A Critical Resource

The H2O Help to Others program has evolved significantly since its inception, now offering a range of vital services, including cash grants, bill discounts, and educational resources aimed at water conservation. President of Pennsylvania American Water, Justin Ladner, highlighted the importance of providing affordable water access for every community they serve, stating, “For 35 years, H2O Help to Others has been a critical part of our commitment to customers.” This support has made a tangible difference in the lives of countless individuals across Pennsylvania.

The program began with one-time hardship grants but has since expanded to include tiered discounts on monthly bills and debt relief options. Income-eligible households can benefit from assistance if their income is up to 250% of the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines. This approach reflects a growing awareness of the needs of families struggling with financial difficulties.

Impact on Communities

Over three decades, the program has provided more than 40,000 hardship grants, totaling over $12 million. Currently, about 25,000 Pennsylvania American Water customers enjoy bill discounts that average nearly $20 monthly. The impact of these efforts has been significant, with the company allocating over $16 million in discounts and distributing nearly 1,000 water conservation kits in just 2025 alone.

The assistance reaches a diverse audience, including seniors relying on fixed incomes, working families dealing with unforeseen challenges, and individuals facing temporary setbacks. This broad scope is what makes the program indispensable in maintaining access to essential services for many households.

Chad Quin, CEO of the Dollar Energy Fund, which administers the H2O Help to Others program, noted that Pennsylvania American Water was a trailblazer in recognizing the need for customer assistance, establishing a model that continues to provide meaningful support. “Their leadership helped establish a model that connects customers with essential support when they need it the most,” Quin remarked.

A Commitment to Evolving Needs

As the Pennsylvania American Water continues to adapt to the evolving needs of its customer base, Ladner emphasized the company's ongoing commitment to evaluating and enhancing the program. He stated, “For 35 years, H2O Help to Others has reflected our belief that customers shouldn't have to choose between affordability and access to a safe, reliable water supply.” This forward-thinking approach ensures that the program remains relevant and effective in meeting the needs of the community.

As they celebrate this important milestone, Pennsylvania American Water's focus remains on supporting their customers while delivering high-quality services essential for daily life. For those interested in learning more about the H2O Help to Others program, additional details can be found at pennsylvaniaamwater.com/H2O.

Overall, Pennsylvania American Water's H2O Help to Others program stands as a testament to the enduring commitment to supporting the community and ensuring that access to water remains a right rather than a privilege.