Posted Feb. 3, 2025

Application process paused; City staff and partners actively working to verify current applicant eligibility and release payments  

Richmond, VA — The City of Richmond expects that 100% of Water Recovery Assistance funds are now fully committed to Richmonders financially impacted by the water crisis. The application process for the Family Crisis Fund is now paused as current applicants are verified for eligibility and current applications are reviewed. Over 2,200 applications have been received since Friday, Jan. 31. 

 “Since its inception, the Family Crisis Fund has provided critical support to Richmonders in need. The overwhelming number of applications received in the aftermath of the water outage speaks to the great need of many residents. For some, the Family Crisis Fund may be their last resort in covering the cost of rent, childcare, and other basic needs,” said Deputy Chief Administrative Officer for Human Services Traci J. Deshazor. 

Close to $650,000 of recovery funds are currently available to support Richmonders who have a demonstrated financial need following the water outage. Qualifying residents may be eligible for up to $2,500 in recovery funding.  

The City of Richmond and its Family Crisis Fund partner organizations are actively working to verify applicant eligibility and review all current applications.  At this time, it is anticipated that applicants will be contacted in approximately 10-15 business days. Applications will be verified and processed in the order they were received. 

“I know many Richmonders are facing real challenges following the water outage — rent payments, child care costs, missed medical bills. Water Recovery Assistance through the Family Crisis Fund is one important way the City can work together with residents to face those challenges.” said Mayor Danny Avula. “The water crisis was not the only challenge we’ll face in the coming years, and Richmonders deserve a robust and resilient Family Crisis Fund to help us meet those future challenges together. And so, my team and I are currently exploring all options to expand financial support for this critical program.” 

Individuals and businesses, as they’re able, can also contribute to Water Recovery Assistance by donating online: https://www.yourunitedway.org/rvawaterfund/ 

Water Recovery Assistance is provided through the Family Crisis Fund. Since 2024, the City has dedicated more than $2.6 million to the Family Crisis Fund to support Richmonders in need.