The City of St. Petersburg is awarding four neighborhood associations with mini-grants for their participation in a holiday giving campaign.

The neighborhood associations were selected based on their participation in a fundraising contest for the City's Utility Assistance Program, which helps St. Petersburg utility customers who are struggling with their utility bills.

"The mini-grants will help these neighborhoods host community-building or volunteer events," says Community Services Director Susie Ajoc. "Not only are these residents getting to know their neighbors, but they are also helping those in need by donating to the Utility Assistance Program."

The first place $500 mini-grant will be awarded to Magnolia Heights. Campbell Park, Historic Kenwood and Riviera Bay Civic Association tied for second place and will split the prize for second and third place.

Although the contest is over, St. Petersburg utility customers can still sign up to donate to the Utility Assistance Program automatically through their utility bill. The program helps those who are experiencing financial hardships with their utility costs and collected funds are distributed through a network of social service agencies. The Utility Bill Round-Up option rounds up the bill to the nearest dollar and donates the difference, which comes to less than only $12 per year. The donation form can be found at stpete.org/UtilityAssistance.