Illinois American Water Expands Discount Program to Help More Customers

Beginning this month, Illinois American Water is expanding its Income-Based Discount Program to help more customers pay their water and wastewater bills.

The company is raising the income limit so more people can qualify for the program. Right now, customers must earn 150% or less of the Federal Poverty Level to be eligible. With this new effort, that limit increases to 300% of the Federal Poverty Level, allowing more families to receive help.

Since August 2023, Illinois American Water has worked with Dollar Energy Fund to offer monthly bill discounts to approved customers. Currently, customers get a 70% discount on the usage portion of their bill. Now, the program will switch to a four-tier system that offers different discount levels based on income—giving more help to those with the greatest need.

Illinois American Water says this change is part of its ongoing efforts to make water service affordable while continuing to invest in infrastructure to keep systems safe and reliable.

You can apply directly on their website here!

City of St. Louis Launches Four New Recovery Programs to Support Tornado-Affected Residents

The City of St. Louis has introduced four new recovery programs to assist residents impacted by the tornado. Designed to meet critical needs, these programs offer trusted repair support, expert advice, and protects homeowners from fraud and further damage. This coordinated citywide effort aims to help effected families begin the recovery process.

The following services are now available at no cost:

Free Electricity Reconnection

For homeowners who are without power—but whose homes have not sustained severe structural damage—licensed union electricians are available to help. Through a partnership with IBEW Local 1, NECA, ArchKey/Sachs, Guarantee Electric, RJP Electric, and the St. Louis Home Repair Network, residents can receive safe electrical reconnection services at no charge.

"Ask An Architect" Program

Residents now have access to free consultations with licensed architects to address storm-related questions and concerns. This service is generously provided by volunteer members of the American Institute of Architects St. Louis and can help guide decisions about repairs, rebuilding, or structural safety.

Contractor Registry for Safe and Reliable Hiring

To protect homeowners during the rebuilding process, the city has launched a Contractor Registry that allows residents to verify whether a contractor is licensed, insured, and certified. This tool is designed to help prevent fraud and ensure that storm recovery efforts are handled by qualified professionals.

Emergency Stabilization Services

Rapid-response teams are now available to secure damaged properties and prevent further harm. Services include roof tarping, boarding up broken windows or doors, debris removal, and hazardous tree removal. These immediate interventions are intended to protect homes while long-term repairs are arranged.

Again, all programs are available free of charge to qualifying residents. They are part of the city's broader recovery initiative to help the community rebuild safely and efficiently.

These efforts mark a strong step forward in restoring safety, stability, and confidence for St. Louis residents.

Everyday Excellence, One Habit at a Time with Jeff Koziatek

Habit #28: High Hands

Attacks can come in the form of criticism, but also as inappropriate demands on your heart, mind, body, and resources.

In boxing it’s not just who can land amazing punches, it’s also who can slip, roll, and block with high hands - to stay in the match.

The same can be said of boundaries for your life. They are important to avoid burn out, early fatigue, distractions, and increase productivity and longevity.

It's okay to say, "no" and "not yet." Hold your hands high.

Remember:

Personal boundaries are necessary for sustainability.

Performance Tips:

• Saying no and adding boundaries is okay.
• Be wary of people who do not respect your boundaries or push back on them. Clearly communicate your boundaries. If they still aren’t respected, take appropriate action.
• Treat yourself as though you are worth protecting. Communicate your worth to others through boundaries.