Regional Water Authority Expands Aid for Low-Income Customers

New guidelines increase grant amounts and eligibility for residential water assistance program.

Published on Feb. 23, 2026

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The New Haven-based Regional Water Authority has made changes to its residential water assistance program, expanding eligibility and increasing grant amounts to better support households experiencing financial hardship. The new guidelines, which took effect in late January, provide for a $300 grant for households earning up to 60% of state median income and $225 grants for those earning between 61% and 75% of state median income.

Why it matters

The changes to the Regional Water Authority's assistance program aim to reach more families in need and provide meaningful financial help during challenging economic times. This is especially important in the New Haven area, where the utility serves 15 towns and many residents may be struggling with the rising costs of living.

The details

Under the previous guidelines, the water assistance grants were based on federal poverty levels and capped at $175 per household. The new rules expand eligibility by using state median income as the benchmark and offer higher grant amounts of $300 and $225 depending on household earnings. Applicants are limited to one grant per year.

  • The new guidelines took effect at the end of January 2026.

The players

Regional Water Authority

A quasi-public utility that serves customers in 15 New Haven area towns in Connecticut.

Bridgette Hoskie

The director of customer care at the Regional Water Authority.

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What they’re saying

“Expanding the program eligibility and increasing grant amounts serves the quasi-public utility's "higher purpose, to make life better for people, by reaching more families and providing meaningful help where it's needed most.”

— Bridgette Hoskie, Director of Customer Care (greenwichtime.com)

The takeaway

The Regional Water Authority's expanded water assistance program demonstrates a commitment to supporting low-income households in the New Haven area during challenging economic times, providing much-needed financial relief to those struggling to afford basic utilities.