More than 1,000 Ameren Illinois customers received financial grants and consultation on ways to reduce their utility bills at two energy assistance events recently hosted by Ameren Illinois. Ameren Illinois President Richard Mark announced that the company made $150,000 available to help income-qualified customers in the Peoria and East St. Louis areas with their energy bills.
“We are aware that many customers, particularly those in lower-income areas, are facing financial difficulties,” Mark said. "Ameren Illinois is committed to serving the community and that’s why we’re partnering with local social service agencies to provide relief to those who need it the most."
The events were held on Sept. 30 in Peoria and Oct. 7 in East St. Louis. In partnership with the Peoria County Citizens for Economic Opportunity (PCCEO) and the St. Clair County Intergovernmental Grants Department, Ameren Illinois customer service and energy efficiency representatives provided credits of up to $100 to residential customers who met income eligibility guidelines. Residential energy efficiency kits were distributed to each attendee, along with information on programs that can help customers manage their usage and reduce their monthly bills.
"Every day, I hear from residents who are worried about how they will keep the lights on and stay warm as winter approaches," said Terry Beach, executive director of St. Clair County Intergovernmental Grants whose agency provides energy assistance to low-income households. "We are thankful for Ameren Illinois’ involvement in our community and their leadership in stepping up to lend a hand to our most vulnerable families."
In Peoria, $50,000 was earmarked by Ameren Illinois to enable PCCEO to assist seniors and low-income families who are at risk of having their electric service disconnected due to non-payment. These funds are currently being distributed to qualified customers through PCCEO.
The energy assistance events were part of Ameren Illinois’ ongoing commitment to build stronger local communities by investing in non-profit organizations and mobilizing its employees to support local charitable causes. This year Ameren Illinois has donated more than $1 million to military families, seniors, low-income customers, and social service organizations to help offset energy costs. In June, Ameren Illinois distributed 500 air conditioners to low-income individuals and families, as well as its elderly and disabled customers throughout its service area. The company also offers several programs to help customers with bill payment and financial support, including Warm Neighbors Cool Friends, Energy Efficiency incentives, and Budget Billing.
Ameren Illinois encourages customers who may get behind in their electric or natural gas bill, to call the company’s customer service, 1-800-755-5000.
About Ameren Illinois
Ameren Illinois delivers energy to 1.2 million electric and 816,000 natural gas customers in downstate Illinois, and our mission is to power the quality of life. Its service area covers more than 1,200 communities and 43,700 square miles. For more information, visit AmerenIllinois.com. Follow us on Twitter @AmerenIllinois and Facebook.
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