DeKalb County and Urban League Launch the Water Rate Assistance Program (W.R.A.P.)

DeKalb County and Urban League Launch the Water Rate Assistance Program (W.R.A.P.)

DeKalb County and the Urban League of Greater Atlanta (ULGA) are working together to make sure water stays within reach for our most vulnerable residents. The new Water Rate Assistance Program (W.R.A.P.) is designed to help eligible low-income households manage their water and sewer bills, even as a necessary 10% rate increase takes effect.

This year’s adjustment is part of a long-term plan to strengthen and modernize DeKalb’s aging water and sewer infrastructure, with a 10% rate increase scheduled each January for the next decade. These investments will help reduce water main breaks, prevent costly service disruptions, and ensure safe, clean water for decades to come.

“We understand that any increase can be difficult for some households,” said CEO Lorraine Cochran-Johnson. “That is why we have partnered with the Urban League of Greater Atlanta to launch WRAP. This program will help keep water service affordable for our most vulnerable residents while we make the necessary investments to protect public health and support our county’s growth.”

How W.R.A.P. Works

WRAP limits eligible households’ water and sewer bills to no more than 4.5% of their annual income, a level below the affordability thresholds recommended by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the United Nations. If a household’s current bill is already below that percentage, they will not be eligible.

To qualify, residents must:

Be a DeKalb County water and sewer account holder

Have a household income at or below 60% of HUD’s 2025 Adjusted Home Income Limits for the Atlanta metro area (see table at DeKalbWaterAssist.org)

Provide verifiable documentation such as a tax return, W-2, or Form 1099

The Urban League of Greater Atlanta will administer the program, review applications, and determine eligibility.

“Access to clean, affordable water is a basic human necessity,” said Nancy Flake Johnson, President and CEO of the Urban League of Greater Atlanta. “Through W.R.A.P., we are ensuring that no family has to choose between paying their water bill and meeting other essential needs.”

Apply Today

Residents can apply for W.R.A.P. starting August 15:

Website: DeKalbWaterAssist.org

Phone: 404-371-6261

Email: DeKalbWaterAssist@ulgatl.org

For more information on WRAP, the rate increase, and additional water service resources, visit DeKalbWaterAssist.org.