Chelco Petition to help those in need

[florida girl]

I wonder how many would be interested in an option on your power bill, Chelco, that would give you the opportunity to donate a dollar to an indigent fund helping the needy with their power bill? If even half of the 40,000 members donated a dollar, that's $20,000! Many are in need now, and have been. I've created a Google.doc petition to print and sign. PM if unable to access it.

Chelco petition 1 - Google Docs

 

[scooterbug44]

I think it's a great idea!

How do we make sure it goes to those actually in need, not just overdue bills for a house in foreclosure or a deadbeat?

 

[florida girl]

I created this petition last year, got some signatures, not enough for it to be on the ballot. Apparently, it got through, I've been notified that in the recent Chelco magazine:

New program begins to help pay billsA new program, ?Members Helping Members,? will begin next year. It was designed to allow CHELCO members to help other members who are in need of financial assistance. The program will be adminis-tered by the Salvation Army in Okaloosa and Walton coun-ties. Members will be able to choose their level of giving. Participation is voluntary, and no one is obligated to give to the program

http://www.chelco.com/energy_news/ezines/nov_dec_2009_ezine.pdf
Be sure to pay attention to it when it shows up on your bill!

 

[florida girl]

I think it's a great idea!

How do we make sure it goes to those actually in need, not just overdue bills for a house in foreclosure or a deadbeat?

I think there's probably a bad apple in every bunch! Over all though, if the Salvation Army runs it, or some other charity, it should help those who really are in need.

 

[Matt J]

Act Walton is already actively pursuing this. If you happen to be a Gulf Power customer then you already have this option.

Generally when applying for the relief you have to prove that you need it, no one's swinging into Gulf Power in a Bentley wearing a free coat and receiving this benefit.

Apparently one of the first steps to homelessness is the inability to pay a utility bill, generally power.

 

[florida girl]

Wasn't it Shelley that commented about eating Ramen noodles on granite counter tops? You really never know.

 

[Matt J]

ACT Walton has already implemented this with CHELCO. Should be appearing on future bills any day now.