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Bright Notes 804

Our newsletter for utility help and local resources

Each issue shares application dates, energy saving tips, and community resources for families in the Richmond area. Free to read, free to join.

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Issue No. 1 · August 2026

Utility relief applications open Monday, August 17

Applications for electric bill assistance open August 17, plus a same week deadline for cooling help and where to turn for water bill relief.

Mark your calendar

Utility relief applications open Monday, August 17

The Bright Focus Utility Relief Program covers up to $200 in electric bill assistance, paid straight to your utility provider. No cash changes hands.

Get the application

What you need to know

  • Opens: Monday, August 17, 2026
  • Covers: Electric accounts only this cycle. Gas and water are not eligible this round.
  • Award: Up to $200, paid directly to your utility provider
  • Selection: A documented random drawing. Applying does not guarantee an award.
  • Apply: forms.gle/4Qd292Mg45vS9wPk8

Cannot wait until the 17th?

Virginia's statewide Cooling Assistance Program is open through August 15 and can cover electric bills or AC repairs, sometimes more than our $200 cap, for households with a young child, someone 60 or older, or someone living with a disability. Apply at commonhelp.virginia.gov or call your local Department of Social Services. You can use this program and still apply with us when our window opens.

Energy tip of the month

Beat the late summer heat without spiking your bill

Set your thermostat to 78°F when you are home and a few degrees higher when you are out. Every degree below 78°F can add 3 to 5 percent to your cooling costs. Pair that with ceiling fans running counterclockwise in summer to feel cooler without cranking the AC.

Bonus: close your blinds during peak sun hours, roughly 1pm to 4pm, to keep the house naturally cooler.

Local resource spotlight

MetroCare Water Assistance Program

City of Richmond Department of Public Utilities

Since our program covers electric only right now, here is where to turn for water. MetroCare offers a discount toward past due water bills for eligible customers, plus help with plumbing repairs and water efficient appliance upgrades for homeowners through its Water Conservation Program. It is open to Richmond Public Utilities customers, including some Henrico and Chesterfield residents who receive their water bill from Richmond.

You are encouraged to apply if you have a delinquent water bill or are at risk of disconnection.

730 E. Broad Street, 5th Floor, Richmond, VA 23219
rva.gov/public-utilities/billing

Also worth knowing: LIHWAP, the federally funded Low Income Household Water Assistance Program, may also be available. Ask about it when you apply.

That is a wrap

Thanks for being part of the Bright Notes 804 community. Got a resource we should feature, or a question about utility assistance? Reply to any issue and we will read it. See you next issue.

The Bright Focus Initiative 804 Team

Bright Notes 804 is entirely reader and donor supported. If this newsletter helped you, consider chipping in to help us sponsor a family's utility bill.

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