Just $2 a month helps Scottsdale neighbors in need

For more than 30 years, Scottsdale utility customers have quietly helped their neighbors through a simple act: adding a small donation to their monthly utility bill.

Beginning July 1, Scottsdale utility customers who participate in Scottsdale Cares will contribute a minimum of $2 per month through their utility bill, helping fund programs that strengthen families, support seniors, create opportunities for youth and assist residents facing unexpected challenges.

Established in 1995, Scottsdale Cares is the city of Scottsdale's utility bill donation program. Since its launch, residents have contributed more than $5 million to support community-based organizations serving Scottsdale families, seniors, youth and vulnerable populations.

"Scottsdale Cares is one of the simplest ways residents can make a meaningful difference in our community," said City Manager Greg Caton. "For just $2 a month, participants help support programs that strengthen families, assist seniors, create opportunities for young people and provide critical resources for residents facing unexpected challenges."

Unlike many charitable programs, every dollar donated through Scottsdale Cares goes directly to nonprofit organizations. No donation funds are used for program administration.

The program supports a wide range of services designed to strengthen families, promote self-sufficiency and provide assistance during times of need. Funded programs help residents maintain housing stability, support seniors living independently, provide legal advocacy for low-income residents, assist families raising children with disabilities and create opportunities for youth and adults to thrive.

This year, Scottsdale Cares funding will support 11 nonprofit organizations serving Scottsdale residents.

Among the organizations receiving funding are Scottsdale Community Partners, which provides emergency rent and mortgage assistance to families experiencing financial hardship; Community Legal Services, which provides free legal representation to low-income residents; Duet: Partners In Health & Aging, which helps older adults remain safely housed and connected to community resources; and the Valley of the Sun YMCA, which offers workforce readiness programs that prepare teens for future careers.

Funding also supports programs focused on youth development, disability services, family support, workforce readiness and community connection.

"The organizations funded through Scottsdale Cares address real needs in our community every day," said interim Human Services Director Mary Witkofski. "Whether it's helping a family through a difficult time, supporting a senior's independence, providing legal assistance or creating opportunities for adults with developmental disabilities, these programs have a direct impact on the quality of life of Scottsdale residents."

Participation in Scottsdale Cares is voluntary and easy to set up. Utility customers can enroll through their online utility account by selecting the "Utility Amount Due Plus Scottsdale Cares" payment option, which automatically adds a $2 monthly donation. Customers may also choose to contribute a larger amount.

Residents who use the city's SurePay automatic payment program can enroll or adjust their contribution by calling 480-312-7400.

Additional one-time donations can be made by check or through the city's online donation portal.

All Scottsdale Cares donations are tax-deductible, and participants receive an annual donation summary on their January utility bill for tax reporting purposes.

As Scottsdale continues to grow, Witkofski says the program remains a powerful example of how small contributions from many residents can create meaningful community impact.

Since 1995, those collective contributions have helped fund services for thousands of Scottsdale residents, proving that sometimes just $2 can go a long way.