Energy Share Assistance

Dear Editor,

It is no secret that the cost of living is significantly higher than it was a year ago. Things are tough out there for a lot of people. If you or someone you know is struggling to pay their home energy bill, please contact Action for Eastern Montana (AEM) in Glendive at 1-800-227-0703. Help is available in various forms such as emergency bill assistance through Energy Share of Montana or LIHEAP (formerly called LIEAP). AEM handles applications for both programs.

Energy Share is for people who are facing a no-heat situation and have no resources to pay the bill themselves. It is important to note that Energy Share assistance is situationally-based, not income-based. Applications are considered on a case-by-case basis and reviewed individually.

Energy Share is privately funded. Assistance is made possible through the generous donations of individuals, utility companies, electric cooperatives, the propane industry, and large electric users across the state. Energy Share also helps with weatherization, furnaces and water heaters for LIHEAP-qualified customers of Montana-Dakota Utilities.

If you're in a position to contribute, you can do so by mailing a check to Energy Share, PO Box 5959, Helena, MT 59604 or donate online at http://www.energysharet.com/donate-now. Energy Share is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, donations are tax deductible, and they are directed to be used first in the area from which they came. One hundred percent of your donation will be used to help someone in need.

Last but not least, please remember that it is hard to ask for help. If you know someone who really should be on the receiving end of one of these programs but is hesitant to ask, please come alongside them as they reach out for assistance.

In Montana, neighbors help neighbors and that's what Energy Share is all about.

Sincerely,

Executive Director Energy Share Montana Rachel Haberman and Energy Programs Direction, Action for Eastern Montana Kevin Thompson