Winter can bring joy with beautiful snow and extra time with family during school breaks, but it can also be a source of stress as temperatures drop and utility costs rise. To manage the impact on your household budget, consider these resources and strategies to stay warm during the coldest months.
Be proactive.
Contact your utility provider once you realize you are unable to pay your bill. They may be able to offer energy-saving equipment, payment plans, shut-off protection and other ways to stabilize your budget and avoid a shut-off notice.
Apply for help.
Low-income households may qualify for State Emergency Relief (SER) funds to help pay for heat and electricity. Applications are available online through MI Bridges, with application assistance available through MDHHS community partners. Approval for SER funds also opens the door to the Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP), which provides supplemental grants for energy self-sufficiency.
For more information, contact the Wayne Metro Community Action Agency or Michigan 2-1-1.
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