Brought to you by WBIW News and Network Indiana
Last updated on Wednesday, November 14, 2012
(UNDATED) - Duke Energy shareholders are contributing $200,000 through the company’s “Helping Hand” program to assist customers in need with their winter energy bills.
In addition, customers and employees have contributed an additional $100,000 to the program, to raise the total to approximately $300,000.
"These can be tough economic times, and winter energy assistance for those who are less fortunate is a long-standing practice at Duke Energy," said Doug Esamann, president of Duke Energy Indiana. "We invite our customers and employees to join in this annual effort," he said.
Over the past decade, the Helping Hand program has provided more than $4 million in assistance to customers in need of help with winter energy bills.
Duke Energy partners with the Indiana Community Action Association and the Indiana Housing & Community Development Authority's Energy Assistance Program (EAP), which distributes the program dollars. Duke Energy customers in need of assistance can receive a $100 credit toward their electric bill if their local EAP agency determines they are eligible based on need and other criteria.
Information on ways to contribute to Duke Energy's Helping Hand program can be found in the company's bill inserts for both paper and online service customers, or by visiting http://www.duke-energy.com/indiana/special-assistance/helping-hand.asp.
Contributions may be sent directly to: Helping Hand, 139 E. Fourth St., Cincinnati, OH, 45202.
Duke Energy offers additional programs which can help customers during the winter months, including:
Budget Billing -This program enables customers to avoid bill spikes by providing predictable monthly payments.
Adjusted Due Date - Customers may be able to adjust the due date of their utility bill to a monthly date that meets the timing of their income. This is a popular program with seniors on Social Security.
Indiana Home Weatherization - Income-qualified Duke Energy customers can receive free home weatherization measures through Energizing Indiana, a united effort of the state's major utilities, including Duke Energy. Professional energy advisors will install multiple energy saving measures during their home visits. For a free home evaluation, contact Energizing Indiana at 1-888-446-7750.
Extended Payment Agreement - Duke Energy can help a customer by establishing an extended payment agreement if the customer qualifies. Customers must first contact the company to see if they are eligible for this free service
Life Support Program - Duke Energy offers a Life Support Program for customers who use electrically powered life support equipment
Third-Party Notification - This program sends a copy of a monthly bill to a friend or relative without holding them responsible for the payment. Paperless Billing accounts are not eligible.
For more information about Duke Energy's programs in Indiana, log on to:
http://www.duke-energy.com/indiana.asp.
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