Table of Contents
Click any link in the list below to jump to that section of Community Resources listings:
Housing & Utilities Assistance
PCSI has a limited pool of funds to support City of Pittsburgh residents who need help with their rent or utility bills.
These funds are usually reserved for participants in our Case Management and Reentry programs.
For housing assistance: PCSI can provide referrals to organizations that may be able to help pay for housing costs, including back rent, security deposits, or first month’s rent.
For assistance with utility bills: PCSI can submit Dollar Energy applications on behalf of customers living in Pittsburgh and other parts of Allegheny County.
Utilities: Dollar Energy
The Dollar Energy Fund (DEF) helps utility customers with low income keep or restore utilities. Rules and requirements for participation are different depending on the utility, the time of year, and the amount of funds that are available. Learn more about applying to the Dollar Energy Fund.
You can apply on your own at https://www.dollarenergy.org/need-help/. If you want PCSI’s help assistance submitting your application, send us a message using the form on our Contact Us page and we’ll make an appointment.
PLEASE NOTE:
- You must be a resident of Allegheny County (including Pittsburgh) for PCSI to help with your Dollar Energy Fund application.
- PCSI cannot assist with sincere effort/good faith payments.
- If you have received Dollar Energy Fund support within the past 12 months, from PCSI or another provider, you are ineligible to receive it again before 12 months have passed.
- If LIHEAP (see below) is accepting applications, you must apply for LIHEAP before we can submit your Dollar Energy application.
Utilities: LIHEAP (Low Income Heating and Energy Assistance Program)
LIHEAP assists eligible renters and homeowners with utility bills. The program is seasonal, and only accepts applications at certain times during the year. LIHEAP is accepting applications through April 18, 2025.
PLEASE NOTE: Dollar Energy will always require you to apply for support from LIHEAP first, if the LIHEAP program is accepting applications.
You can learn more and apply for LIHEAP here: Learn about the LIHEAP program that assists renters and homeowners with utility bills on a seasonal basis.
Housing: Allegheny Link
The Allegheny Link is part of Allegheny County’s Department of Human Services and assists households experiencing homelessness, housing instability, or eviction. Find more information here: Allegheny Link – Allegheny County, PA.
Housing: Rent Help Pittsburgh
Rent Help Pittsburgh supports Allegheny County tenants by ensuring residents can easily access high quality eviction prevention and supportive services, rental assistance programs, and resource navigation support. Find more information here: RentHelpPGH | Eviction Prevention & Advocacy.
Domestic Violence
If you are experiencing domestic violence, please call the Women’s Center and Shelter of Greater Pittsburgh. Their hotline number is 412-687-8005.
There are more resources here: Domestic Violence Resource Guide – Pittsburgh, PA.
Legal Assistance
If you need help with a legal matter but cannot afford an attorney, some groups may be able to help you. You can contact Neighborhood Legal Services at 1-866-761-6572 and find more information here: Neighborhood Legal Services.
Other Information and Referral Resources
For additional information about assistance programs, you can:
- Call United Way’s 2-1-1 hotline or go to PA 211 Southwest – Get Connected. Get Help.
- Use PA Navigate: PA Navigate by findhelp – Search and Connect to Social Care