City launches CARES program to provide sewer bill relief to Oʻahu households

HONOLULU — The City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Environmental Services (ENV) is announcing the launch of the Customer Assistance for Residential Environmental Services (CARES) program, designed to provide financial relief to eligible residential sewer customers.

The CARES program offers up to $240 in annual sewer bill credits per qualifying household. Credits will be applied directly to the sewer bill until the full amount is used.

The program is part of the City’s effort to help residents manage utility costs, including the scheduled sewer rate adjustments in July and the coming years.
CARES is funded at $10 million and will assist an estimated 41,000 households. Assistance will be provided on a first-come, first-served basis until funds are fully expended, so residents are encouraged to apply soon.

“CARES provides meaningful and direct support to residents who need it most,” ENV Director Roger Babcock said. “While we continue to invest in essential wastewater infrastructure, we are equally committed to helping Oʻahu families manage costs.”
Eligible applicants must be Oʻahu residential sewer customers and meet income requirements at or below 80% of the AMI.

Applications are available for pick-up at all Satellite City Halls and public libraries. They are also available online to print. Applications will be accepted May 1, 2026, through October 31, 2026. They must be submitted by mail or drop-off at designated locations. At this time, applications will not be accepted online.
For more information, log on to Honolulu.gov/env/cares or call 808-768-3330

For a short video depicting the application process, click here. Please courtesy the Department of Environmental Services

About the Department of Environmental Services
The City and County of Honolulu’s Department of Environmental Services (ENV) manages wastewater and solid waste systems that serve the island of Oʻahu, which include 2,100 miles of sewer lines, 72 wastewater pump stations, nine wastewater treatment plants, three solid waste transfer stations, seven refuse and recycling convenience centers, seven solid waste collection base yards, one active landfill, and one waste-to-energy facility (H-POWER). ENV is dedicated to protecting public health, preserving the environment, and ensuring the sustainable management of Honolulu’s essential infrastructure through innovation, efficiency, and community partnership.

Department of Environmental Services
City and County of Honolulu
YouTube: @CCHNL_ENV
Instagram: @hnl.env
Facebook: HNL.ENV1

—PAU—