PALATKA, Fla. – The City of Palatka launched a new program that will help residents who struggled with utility bills during the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to the city, the Palatka City Commission awarded the contract to Christall Azcarate, owner of Azcarate Consulting Group in Palatka, to lead the effort to help Palatka residents catch up on their utility bills.
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The money, totaling $155,000, comes from federal COVID-19 American Rescue Act Plan funding, and it is allocated to help residents struggling with missed gas, light or other utilities, according to the city.
“This program is very much needed for Palatka,” Azcarate said. “I am here to make this as easy as possible for residents.”
The program is only available to Palatka residents and is income-based, according to city officials.
Applicants must be at or below the 2024 Federal Poverty Guidelines to qualify.
Palatka residents interested in the program should call or text 386-546-5802, email azcarateconsultinggroup@gmail.com, or visit the Palatka Community Affairs department at the Robert Jenkins Community Center, 220 N 11th St. in Palatka.
Residents must provide a government-issued photo identification, such as a driver’s license, proof of income, and a copy of their past-due bills with an account number.