Need help paying bills? Check out these Riverside County resources

With the government’s two percent increase in Social Security taxes kicking in, workers nationwide will feel the pinch of smaller paychecks beginning this month.

(Flickr: Andres Rueda)

It might be $50 or it might be $100 less, but everyone’s paychecks will shrink, depending on their income.

For Riverside County residents having trouble making ends meet, read on for resources and listings where people in need can find assistance:

Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program

Need help with your electric bill? Riverside County residents with low or moderate incomes can apply for cash grants and one-time assistance to help pay their electric bills through the federally funded Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program.

Weatherization Assistance Program

Weatherization Assistance Program that provides free home energy conservation services to lower energy bills for low-income Riverside County homeowners and renters.

CancerCare Co-Payment Assistance Foundation

You or someone you love is engaged in a fight for life. This organization offers help with the cost of medications for treating cancer.

Riverside EDA Home Repair Grant Program

Need help with home repairs, but can’t afford the escalating costs of contractors? The Home Repair Loan Program provides up to $10,000 for home repair services in the form of a deferred loan.

Rent Assistance Programs

It can be a challenge to come up with the rent each month, especially as costs of food and gas have skyrocketed. To get rental help in California, call 800-955-2232.

CareCredit

Feeling sick after the dreaded hospital bill arrives in the mail? This payment option, offered by GE, provides special financing and low monthly payment options.

Riverside County Housing Authority

Cost of living got you down? Visitors can find referrals and inquire about affordable, subsidized housing  by calling 951-351-0700.

Women, Infants and Children Supplemental Nutrition Program

Mothers who need help feeding their young children should look into this program. WIC can provide groceries for low-income women, pregnant women and infants and children up to age 5. Call 951-358-5311 to learn more.

Medi-Cal
If you find yourself in a healthcare quandary, learn more about low-cost health insurance options through Medi-Cal. Call 800-880-5305 to learn more.

California Department of Social Services

From employment to finding in-home care, there are many assistance programs offered by the California Department of Social Services. Learn more by calling 916-651-8848.

For more assistance in finding answers to your financial dilemmas, visit www.needhelppayingbills.com.

Amy Bentley is a local writer and regular contributor to SWRNN.