Energy assistance available in Hennepin County
Written by Julie Borgen, Twin Cities media relations director for The Salvation Army’s Northern Division
Roseville, Minn. – With cold weather season knocking on our door, The Salvation Army is inviting anyone in Hennepin County who needs help paying their gas and electric bills to come sign up for assistance on Monday, Oct 3.
The event will take place at The Salvation Army at 2024 N. Lyndale Ave. in Minneapolis from 8:30 a.m.- 11 a.m.
Representatives from CenterPoint Energy, Xcel Energy and the Community Action Partnership of Suburban Hennepin County will be there to help anyone who is eligible to sign up.
The Cold Weather Rule – which prevents utility companies from unlawfully turning off the heat during the winter months – takes effect on Oct. 15. However, customers who need assistance must set up a payment plan, or their utilities can still be shut off.
“It’s vital that people realize they have to act, if they need help covering their utility bills during the winter months,” said Mike McGlone, administrator of The Salvation Army’s energy assistance program. “Don’t expect the Cold Weather Rule to protect you, if you are behind on payments and have not contacted your gas and electric providers to make a plan.”
Hennepin County residents seeking help with their utility bills should bring copies of their gas and electricity bills, along with proof of income.
There are also grants available to help cover utility costs in Hennepin County, for people whose annual income is $24,540 or less for a single person, or $47,192 or less for a family of four.