Press release from Indiana Michigan Power:
I&M partners with community agencies to meet increased needs of customers
Indiana Michigan Power (I&M) is partnering with community action agencies in both Indiana and Michigan this year to administer the Energy Share program, which distributes funds to qualifying low-income customers to help them pay their electric utility bills.
The program is now in its fifth year. This year, primary support for the program comes from a $125,000 contribution from I&M, with additional support from customers who care to contribute.
“Energy Share is about a partnership between I&M, our customers, and the community organizations that work with people in need,” says Helen Murray, I&M president and chief operating officer. Nearly 2,800 customers benefited from Energy Share during the first four years.
“Equally gratifying was the participation of nearly 1,500 I&M customers, who contributed more than $38,000 to extend benefits to additional customers in need,” said Murray.
“With the economic downturn and rising unemployment, our need is up dramatically,” says Ed Gerardot, executive director of the Indiana Community Action Association.
“We are excited about this partnership with I&M to address the energy needs of the people we serve.”
“Energy bills are challenging for almost all of us,” adds Arthur Fenrick, executive director of the Southwest Michigan Community Action Agency in Benton Harbor, Mich. “But that’s particularly true for low-income households who need help with their energy costs.”
Anyone who would like to support the program can send tax-deductible donations directly to IN-CAA Energy Share, Indiana Community Action Association, 1845 West 18th St., Indianapolis, IN 46202.
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