City Expands One-Time Assistance Program

The City of Phoenix is re-launching the Targeted One-Time Crisis Assistance program which provides short-term financial support to households that experienced a complete loss of SNAP benefits on or after October 1, 2025, to now include a loss of KidsCare (CHIP) coverage on or after October 1, 2026. The program helps households maintain stability by covering essential utility expenses, allowing families to use more of their remaining income to purchase food and access groceries close to home.

The City Council approved a supplemental budget request of $3.15 million to fund the program. The funds are limited. The program started July 6th and will continue while funds last.

“My colleagues on the City Council and I continue to take steps to help residents who are struggling to afford basic necessities,” Mayor Kate Gallego said. “We’re investing in eviction prevention, downpayment assistance, childcare, affordable housing, and helping families access food benefits for which they’re eligible. We hope to provide additional relief by expanding this program to families with children who lost their health insurance.”

Those who are eligible will receive a one-time utility payment of $600 or can be applied to rent if the rent and utilities are combined. There will also be a $100 payment for transportation assistance in the form of a gas card or bus passes.

Federal Loss: Must be a Phoenix Resident who had a complete loss of SNAP on or after October 1, 2025, or must have had a complete loss of CHIP on or after October 1, 2026, and have not had benefits restored. There is no income requirement. Applicants who lost benefits due to fraud or misuse are not eligible to receive the one-time assistance.

You must have the below documentation to determine eligibility

• Valid photo identification of the applicant

• Proof of City of Phoenix residency (utility bill, lease agreement or mortgage statement)

• DES Case Number confirming federal program impact

• Utility account number (as applicable)

• Lease agreement (as applicable)

Visit phoenix.gov/BenefitLossAssistance to apply.