Energy Share Appreciates its Volunteers

One might think the worst of winter is over for the year, and that is true for most Montanans. However, thousands of families in this state are still struggling to catch up from their winter energy bills and many of them are facing loss of heat or lights right now, having no resources to pay their bill themselves. Even though the coldest temperatures are behind us, it is still very chilly if your furnace is out. Energy Share of Montana is a statewide, private, nonprofit organization whose main purpose is to help these folks before they lose their heat. Information on how to apply in eastern Montana can be obtained by calling Action for Eastern Montana in Glendive at 377-3564 or 1-800-227-0703, or by visiting Energy Share’s website at http://www.energysharemt.com/BillAssist. Energy Share could not fulfill its mission without the dedication of the ten volunteer Local Energy Share Committees across the state. One such Committee works with Action for Eastern Montana to review each application individually. This group is made up of volunteers representing Rural Employment Opportunities, senior citizens, Housing/Emergency Services, and Action for Eastern Montana. These volunteers donate many hours on behalf of the organizations they represent. Energy Share helps people no matter what their heat source, but the assistance is usually only once every ten years or so because the organization is truly a source of emergency funds. Energy Share is designed to complement a household’s own efforts to meet their utility bill needs. If you’re interested in helping a neighbor stay warm, donate online at http://www.energysharemt.com or send a check to Energy Share, PO Box 5959, Helena, MT 59604. Gifts are used first in the area from which they came so you truly are helping a neighbor when you give to Energy Share. Donations are tax-deductible and 100% of private donations are used for bill assistance unless otherwise designated by the donor.