Friends,
The meteorologists tell us we just finished up the coldest spell in more than 15 years, but I don’t remember a stretch of weather like this. I know we’re Minnesotans and we’re a hardy lot, but the last week was ridiculous!
For some of us, there was no refuge indoors. They are the Minnesotans who, for one reason or another, can’t afford to heat their homes. No one should have to choose between paying their heating bill and buying groceries or medicine. Yet many of our neighbors are put in this position.
If you or someone you know are one of these folks, you should know that there is help available. There is help available for low-income Minnesotans – especially seniors, people with disabilities and families with children – through the Department of Commerce’s Energy Assistance Program (EAP).
EAP pays the utility company directly on behalf of eligible households. Qualifying families must apply for assistance at the local service provider in their area; Minnesota has 32 local service providers. A list of local service providers and information on applying for the Minnesota Energy Assistance Program is available by visiting the Energy Assistance section of the Division of Energy Resources website or by calling 1-800-657-3710 or 651-539-1882.
Other forms of assistance may be available through county social service programs, community-based organizations, and nonprofit agencies. See the Stay Warm Minnesota webpage for a list of resources.
We’ll shiver again
While it has warmed up, remember – this is Minnesota. It’s going to get cold again. Now is a good time to review some of the cold weather safety tips put together by the Minnesota Department of Public Safety, the Minnesota Department of Health and the Minnesota Department of Transportation. To follow the links, hit control and click:
Take care and stay warm,
Sheldon