PALATKA, Fla. — The city of Palatka has begun a new program to help residents who struggled with utility bills during the COVID-19 pandemic, which impacted the U.S. four years ago this month.
Azcarate Consulting Group owner Christall Azcarate was awarded the contract by the Palatka City Commission to administer the effort to help Palatka residents catch up on their utility bills using the approximately $155,000 in federal COVID-19 American Rescue Act Plan funding allocated to aid residents struggling with missed gas, light, or other utility payments.
“This program is to help city residents who got behind in their bills because of the pandemic,” Azcarate said in a press release. The program can assist with Florida Power & Light, Clay Electric Cooperative, Palatka Gas Authority, and Palatka water bills.
The program is only available to Palatka residents within city limits and is income-based. Applicants must be at or below the 2024 Federal Poverty Guidelines to qualify, the release said.
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 need to provide a government-issued photo identification, such as a driver license, proof of income, and a copy of their past-due bills with an account number.
“This program is very much needed for Palatka,” Azcarate said. “I am here to make this as easy as possible for residents. If you think you qualify, please call. We are here to help you.”
