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Open Your Heart for a Neighbor
Scottsdale Cares is the City of Scottsdale's voluntary utility bill donation program. Initiated in May 1995, Scottsdale Cares has received over $1 million from Scottsdale residents - donated one dollar at a time. Scottsdale Cares is an easy way to help neighbors in need by adding $1.00 to your monthly water bill to support a variety of human service programs. These dollars are then granted to non-profit agencies that 1) promote the positive development of youth, adults and seniors, 2) strengthen the capability of families and the self-sufficiency of adults and 3) assist Scottsdale citizens of all ages in addressing crisis needs.
Here are some common questions and answers associated with the program.
Q: How can I participate in Scottsdale Cares?
A: A voluntary donation has been added to Scottsdale's monthly utility bill. Simply pay the "Grand Total" and $1.00 will be automatically donated to the program. SurePay customers can call Customer Service at (480) 312-2461 to sign up.
Q: What if I don't want to participate in Scottsdale Cares?
A: Customers who do not wish to add the $1.00 voluntary donation should pay the sum on their bills noted as "Utility Amount Due."
Q: What if I want to donate more than $1.00 US per month to Scottsdale Cares?
A: Donations can be made of any amount at any time. Donations should be made by check and made out to "Scottsdale Cares." Donations should be sent to: Scottsdale Cares, City of Scottsdale Human Services, 3939 N. Drinkwater Blvd., Scottsdale, AZ 85251.
Q: Why can't I donate more than $1.00 on my utility bill?
A: The City's billing system can only recognize $1.00 over the "Utility Amount Due." If you add more than $1.00, the amount will be posted as a credit to your utility bill.
Q: What human service agencies does Scottsdale Cares assist?
A: Non-profit agencies that provide essential services to Scottsdale citizens area eligible to receive funding. In fiscal year 2003/2004, eighteen agencies were funded, providing services such as home-delivered meals, crisis shelter for children, job training for the disabled, and outreach services for the deaf.
Q: Why doesn't the City fund these programs?
A: The City of Scottsdale currently funds over $606,500 to local human service agencies, but the need is far greater than what the City can provide.
Q: Can individuals apply for assistance through Scottsdale Cares?
A: No. Only nonprofit organizations that serve Scottsdale residents may apply. However, the eighteen agencies funded provide a wide range of valuable services to youth, families, adults, and senior citizens. If you are a non-profit agency interested in Scottsdale Cares funding, please call (480) 312-2520.
Q: Who decides how Scottsdale Cares' proceeds will be spent?
A: Scottsdale's Human Services Commission reviews all applications with recommendations forwarded to the City Council for final approval.
Q: Will any of this money be used to pay for administrative costs?
A: No. All donated funds will be allocated for social services programs.
Q: Are my donations tax deductible?
A: Yes. Contributors will receive a year-end total of their donations in their January utility statements that will serve as records for tax purposes.
For more information on the utility bill portion of the Scottsdale Cares program, call (480) 312-2461. For more information on how to donate, please call (480) 312-2464.