DETROIT -- A program aimed at Detroit residents who need assistance with their water bills launched Monday.

Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick and the Detroit Water and Sewerage Department (DWSD) and the Department of Human Services (DHS) have collaborated to develop a Water Assistance Program to help low-income Detroit residents manage their water and sewerage bills.

"The interagency partnership between water and human services ensures low-income Detroiters can receive uninterrupted water and sewerage services in the next Detroit," said Kilpatrick.

Eligible customers for the Detroit Residential Water Assistance Program will receive a credit on their monthly water bill; however, they will be required to pay any existing balance.

Eligible residents must be Detroit residents who live in a single-family residence and must be at or below the federal poverty income guidelines. Also, residents utility must be either disconnected or pending disconnection.

"We have fulfilled the promise made last year to create and implement a water bill assistance program," said Kilpatrick.

Residents who meet program requirements may apply for assistance at any DHS Service Centers.