Direct Energy and the United Way are offering up a new program for local residents who may be experiencing difficulty paying their power bills in the downturn.
The company has partnered with the United Way by way of a $500,000 fund to help needy residents keep the lights on.
According to spokesperson Wendy Tynan the United Way of Calgary, which serves Chestermere, Strathmore, Airdrie, Cochrane, Okotoks and High River has experienced a 14% increase in requests for basic needs funding and there could be more out there. Because it serves a broader regional area she didn’t have specific numbers for Chestermere but said the association has received requests for help.
“The process for Chestermere residents who need help with their utility bills is to call 211. From there they will be assigned a caseworker to review their financial needs and then the agencies makes the determination on funding and works with their provider to provide payment,” she said.
The United Way’s new emergency fund offers a helping hand for hundreds of families, and reduces the risk of them falling deeper into debt due to utility bills in arrears or disconnection notices, she added.
“With almost one million Alberta customers, we understand the financial challenges many families are facing. We wanted to help those who need it most,” Tanis Kozak, Direct Energy’s vice president and Canadian general manager, said in a statement. “By partnering with the United Way, we are confident that the new Direct Energy Emergency Fund will deliver much-needed financial relief for families struggling with their basic needs, including their natural gas and electricity bills.”
Direct Energy’s three-year funding commitment of $500,000 will be available to Albertans served by the United Way of Calgary and Area and the Alberta Capital Region.
Disconnected or pending disconnected utilities are not a specific requirement, it added.
