Potomac Edison Community Energy Fund utility assistance program

Cash raised from the public as part of the Potomac Edison Community Energy Fund utility bill assistance program goes to help the poor, low income, and less fortunate. The money, while it is limited, can be used to pay a wide variety of energy bills ranging from heating to light or electric.

The financial support is for the very low income or people in a short term crisis. There is also energy bill help giving to senior citizens, the disabled, and working poor among others. Any funds paid out depend on donation levels. Once the money ends, no more financial assistance is paid out.

Donate to Community Energy Fund

There are two places that collect money. One is the company Potomac Edison itself. They collect both one-time donations as well as recurring, round up payments. The second way is to partner with a nearby agency, such as a church, community action agency, Human or Department of social service organization as they too will collect funds. There are also matching grants given to increase the number of people that can get assistance.

When donating, 100% of the contribution goes to help pay for energy bill help that Potomac Edison Community Energy Fund offers. There is also a tax deduction for charitable giving, as the IRS provides this to people no matter their income. Both of those can encourage additional contributions from the community, as giving back is always a good thing with 100% going to help the low income pay their energy bills. In addition, Potomac Edison matches donations up to 50%.

 

 

 

 

The round up process means that the contribution takes place each month. A small amount will go to the fund as the donor’s utility bill is rounded up to the next highest dollar amount. Even though it may be “cents” each month, that amount makes a difference in the amount of money a low-income family can have for paying their energy bills. It also lessens the financial impact to the donor as the contribution is a small amount monthly.

Apply to Potomac Edison Community Energy Fund

Potomac Edison customers that are facing the loss of their heat, light, or electric can apply for assistance from Community Energy Fund. They may be given a few dollars to pay an energy bill if qualified. They may also be given free tips and advice on how to save money by conserving their waste of heat. This may be CFL bulbs, more caulking or insulation, programmable thermostats, and ventilation help give out as well. All of this may lessen the need for future financial aid for utility bills, and less the need for future donations.

When there are funds issued to one of the qualified customers, the utility assistance will be given in the form of a credit on their account. It will help pay down a portion of the outstanding bill, thereby giving the customer more time to seek additional help.

For more information on the Potomac Edison Community Energy Fund program, whether how to apply or get assistance, call 1-800-686-0011. Or try a regional social service agency for information o the process.