Project Deserve Westar Energy utility bill donation program

Both non-profits and private funds are used to fund the Westar Energy Project DESERVE utility bill donation program. It is an innovative donation program that has even been copies by many other utility and gas companies across the nation. As contribution and funding allows, it provides emergency assistance with energy bills to qualified Westar Energy customers.

All of the money comes from donations and contribution. The Project DESERVE funding also comes from the companies Trust Fund, customers, Westar Energy employees and their foundation.

There are two main component of Project DESERVE and the aid is targeted at 2 different groups of people. Assistance is for older adults and senior citizens, which includes those that are age 60 and older. Assistance is also for those customers with a severe disability, which includes children or adults meeting federal government Social Security disability criteria.

Most of the donations from the community will be matched by Westar Energy. In some years the company may contribute its own funding and match some of the money raised. If you apply and are found to be qualified, the families may be able to receive up a one-time emergency payment of up to $100. All the funds are used directly on your utility bill and can’t be provide for other costs or needs.

Project DESERVE relies on contributions from the community. All of the money will go to help the less fortunate and not for administrative costs. People can donate as little as they would like, and it will be tax deductible. However it may be a good idea to verify this with your accountant.

Most Westar Energy customers will add $1, $4, $5 or any other dollar amount to their electric bill. This will go directly to pay for the Project DESERVE program. Many of the people that do contribute provide money on a recurring, monthly basis. However any type of one-time “gift” is also accepted by the company.

 

 

 

 

Your generous contribution, which as indicated more than likely will be tax deductible, is given to directly  participating American Red Cross chapters in Kansas. In some towns and counties another social service agency may oversee Project Deserve. All money will go towards distribution to those in need.

There are some different ways for people to donate as well. They can decide to contribute online. They can also call the company and send in an application. No matter how much someone donates or contributes, the amount will be itemized on your monthly utility bill. The program is very flexible and people may cancel or change the amount of their Project DESERVE contribution at any time online. They can also decide to call the company at (800) 383-1183.

If you are interested in applying for assistance, then call a local social service agency in your part of Kansas. Or call Westar Energy at (800) 383-1183. Another option is the American Red Cross, which can be called at (316) 219-4000.