Gas Company Seeks Donations to Help Poor Pay Utility Bill
With heating bills expected to rise this winter, Southern California Gas Co. is soliciting donations to help low-income people pay their gas bills.
Donations made now through April to the utility’s Gas Assistance Fund will be matched dollar for dollar up to $250,000 by corporate funding from Sempra Energy. A contribution envelope was included in customer bills mailed between mid-October and mid-November.
Last year, nearly $550,000 was distributed to more than 8,000 customers in need, through $270,000 in contributions and $280,000 in corporate funds, said spokeswoman Denise King.
“The idea behind it is to invite customers to help those who are less fortunate,” said King.
Contributions are distributed by the United Way of Greater Los Angeles via more than 120 community agencies throughout Central and Southern California. Disbursements will start Feb. 12.
In addition, the utility will repair or replace free of charge nonworking gas furnaces belonging to limited-income customers. The offer is to homeowners who live on their property. Other services include caulking and weather-stripping doors and windows and the installation of attic insulation.
For information on the assistance fund, call (800) 427-2200. For information on other programs, call (800) 331-7593.
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