Non-profit organizations help families in Detroit and all over Michigan.
No matter whether the economy is up or down, there are always people who need a little extra assistance with payments, including utilities. In Detroit, several organizations assist people who have outstanding utility bills. Utility bill assistance helps people avoid getting their heat, electric or other necessary utilities shut off because of non-payment.
The Heat and Warmth Fund
The Heat and Warmth Fund (THAW) helps low-income households all over Michigan pay their utility bills. In 2009-2010, THAW gave more than $7.4 million in assistance to 8,700 families across Michigan. Detroit residents needing help paying utility bills can receive money from THAW if they fulfill several requirements, including a shut-off notice, immediate need for heating fuel and have a residential account in their name.
The Heat and Warmth Fund
607 Shelby St., Suite 400
Detroit, MI 48226
800-866-8429
thawfund.org
The Salvation Army People Care
Created by a partnership between The Salvation Army and Consumers Energy, the People Care Program provides energy bill assistance to Michigan residents along with food, shelter, transportation and clothing. Money comes from donations made by Consumers Energy employers and customers, according to Consumers Energy. Need is determined by the Salvation Army on a case-by-case basis. Since its beginning in 1983, the People Care Program has given over $40 million to needy families.
Salvation Army Southeast Michigan/Detroit
1627 West Fort St.
Detroit, MI 48216
313-965-7760
usc.salvationarmy.org
LIHEAP Home Heating Credit
The Home Heating Credit comes from federal money and is administered by the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and the Michigan Department of Human Services. As the Michigan Department of Human Services website states, the Michigan Treasury Department determines eligibility for the Home Heating Credit based on income, number of exemptions and heating costs. Detroit households wanting to apply for the Home Heating Credit can apply from January to September.
Michigan Department of Human Services
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program
P. O. Box 30025
Lansing, MI 48090
1-800-292-5650
michigan.gov
LIHEAP State Emergency Relief
LIHEAP also sponsors the State Emergency Relief program, another assistance program administered directly by the Michigan Department of Human Services. The program provides payment assistance for fuel and electricity costs, along with home repairs, states the Michigan Department of Human Services. Eligibility is determined by immediate need, income and assets, and is available to all Michigan residents.
Michigan Department of Human Services
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program
P. O. Box 30025
Lansing, MI 48090
1-800-292-5650
michigan.gov
Tags: Department Human, Department Human Services, Human Services, Michigan Department, Michigan Department Human, Heating Credit
