Even though natural gas bills may not be top of mind for many during the summer months, Columbia Gas has reopened its HeatShare program for customers who may be eligible for grants of up to $500 to help with paying their energy bills.
HeatShare, an assistance program provided for Columbia Gas of Maryland customers and administered by Dollar Energy Fund, is a fund of last resort for eligible households who have exhausted all other sources of energy assistance and still have trouble paying their utility bills.
“Customers may be struggling financially at any time of the year, and we want them to know that programs like HeatShare can help offset debts or restore service after shut off,” said Deb Davis, Columbia Gas of Maryland manager, Universal Services. “The program has reopened, so we encourage qualifying customers, even those who may not have received grants previously, to apply for assistance. Because these are one-time grants, customers don’t have to worry about repaying them.”
The HeatShare Program is open until funding is exhausted or when the program year closes on Sept. 30. Income-eligible customers can apply by visiting www.hardshiptools.org/myapp/. Grant awards are based on need, and each household’s circumstances are different. Grant amounts are determined on a case-by-case basis.
In addition to HeatShare, Columbia Gas offers customers assistance programs that offer flexible payment options, budget plans and income-eligible financial support. Customers can visit the Columbia Gas Energy Assistance Resource Center to access an energy assistance fact sheet and an eligibility calculator to determine which programs may best meet their financial situation.
