JACKSON, MI (WKZO AM/FM) — Consumers Energy announced on Thursday, December 8 that it is providing $7.25 million to help customers pay heating bills this winter.
The new contributions are slated to go to eight Michigan nonprofit organizations that will help people directly with Consumers Energy bills, to include United Way of South Central Michigan which serves both Calhoun and Kalamazoo Counties in Southwest Michigan.
The money is also being distributed through The Salvation Army, TrueNorth Community Services, Roscommon County United Way, United Way for Southeastern Michigan, the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, the Superior Watershed Partnership and Michigan Veterans Trust Fund.
“Consumers Energy understands many Michiganders are facing challenging times, and no one wants to see rising energy bills ― especially our most vulnerable customers. We recognize our responsibility to help our customers who count on us every day,” said Garrick Rochow, Consumers Energy’s president and CEO. “Natural gas prices have climbed across the Midwest and nation, and we are committed to helping customers manage their bills and help those in need immediately.”
Customers should call 2-1-1 if they are facing hardship or are trying to access the new funding. The 2-1-1 service is a free resource that connects Michiganders with nonprofits to find help with basic needs, from energy bills to food and shelter. Consumers Energy customers also should call 800-477-5050 if they are facing challenges with their bill.
Consumers Energy and its foundation provided over $12 million in energy bill and basic needs assistance this year. That includes $4.5 million announced in January and another $500,000 last month from the Consumers Energy Foundation for food banks and United Ways in Michigan.
“We want to keep the people we serve safe and comfortable in their own homes, and want everyone to know Consumers Energy is doing all we can to help,” Rochow said. “Whether you need assistance or know someone who does, please spread the word that help is available and just a phone call away. Let’s care for each other this holiday season by looking out for each other.”
Consumers Energy, Michigan’s largest energy provider, is the principal subsidiary of CMS Energy (NYSE: CMS), providing natural gas and/or electricity to 6.8 million of the state’s 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties.
