Burlington, December 3, 2009 – United Way, Burlington Hydro Inc. and Union Gas today announced the 2009-2010 Winter Warmth Program, an initiative that helps families and individuals in need with their energy bills during the cold winter months.
The fund was established in Toronto during the winter of 2004 and has expanded to include nine utilities - Burlington Hydro Inc., Enbridge Gas Distribution, Enersource Hydro Mississauga, Horizon Utilities Corporation, Hydro One, Hydro Ottawa, PowerStream, Toronto Hydro-Electric System Ltd., Union Gas Limited and Veridian Connections.
Winter Warmth is an initiative that helps financially struggling families and individuals to pay their energy bills during the cold winter months. The program is coordinated by the United Way through a network of more than 60 community agencies and it is funded participating utility companies.
In the local community, Burlington Hydro Inc. has made a contribution of $23,000 and an additionally $5,000 have been contributed by Union Gas Limited.
In 2008/2009, the Winter Warmth Program provided energy assistance grants totaling more than $1,2 million to 3,400 eligibly households in Ontario, an increase of 34% over the previous year. The total funds available for the 2009/2010 program are estimated to be more than $1.5 million. Since the program’s launch in 2004, more than 9,000 households have received assistance.
“The program is an important initiative that provides not only emergency financial assistance for families struggling to pay their electricity bill but also a longer term strategy that focuses on energy conservation to assist these households in lowering their energy costs," said Gerry Smallegange, President and CEO of Burlington Hydro Inc. "Burlington Hydro Inc. has a long-standing history of involvement in programs that make a difference in our community and this partnership with United Way provides us with a powerful way to make a contribution.”
“We are thrilled to offer the Winter Warmth Program again this winter for our Burlington families who may be struggling with financial challenges. This program will offer much needed help and support,” said Burlington Mayor Cam Jackson. “Through the partnership between the United Way, Burlington Hydro Inc and Union Gas we will be able to reach out to more families and children in need and underlines the important role this program plays in our community.”
“Our campaign theme this year is ‘A community is not truly great until it is great for everyone’ and the Winter Warmth Program is an example of the partnerships which contribute to making our communities great places to live, work and play,” said Len Lifchus, Chief Executive Officer of the United Way of Burlington & Greater Hamilton. “We are extremely pleased and grateful that Burlington Hydro Inc. and Union Gas have decided to work closely with United Way in this way.”
How the Fund Works
Families and individuals needing financial assistance to pay their heating and hydro bills can find information about the Winter Warmth Fund at their nearest community agency participating in the program.
Burlington Hydro Inc. and Union Gas call centres will also advise customers about the fund, where applicable, and direct them to the appropriate agency.
After a successful application process, one-time funding will be credited directly to the applicant’s utilities account.
Eligibility
Eligible grant recipients include Burlington households that cannot pay their current energy bill due to reduced income levels or extenuating circumstances, are in arrears or at risk of going into arrears, have recently received a disconnection notice and have exhausted all other sources of financial support.
Customers can contact the following agency to determine funding eligibility and submit an application:
BURLINGTON SALVATION ARMY COMMUNITY AND FAMILY SERVICES
Bev Gardner, 905-637-3893
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For further information:
Monica Quinlan, 905-527-4576, ext. 223, or
Len Lifchus 905-527-4576, ext. 230
United Way of Burlington & Greater Hamilton
Jennifer Smith, 905-332-2340
Burlington Hydro Inc.
