Originally posted at: http://www.mlive.com/news/bay-city/index.ssf/2013/03/bay_city_salvation_army_offers.html
Bay City residents struggling to pay their utility bill can go to the Salvation Army for assistance.
“We’re hearing about people who have had their utilities off for weeks or months,” said Cindy Hernden, office manager of the Bay City Salvation Army, 401 Tenth Street. "We want people to know that we can help."
The funds are available to the Salvation Army through an energy assistance grant from the Department of Human Services. Those who are in need of utility assistance should inquire with the DHS first before contacting the Salvation Army.
When calling, be prepared to provide the following information: how many people live in your home; what your income is; who your utility company is; and what your utility account number is.
Energy assistance is only available to individuals once within a 12-month period. After twelve months, those who have received assistance before may apply again.
According to Hernden, the funds from the grant are set to expire in July, but not many people have utilized them.
“We have to get the word out to people so that we can use the funds that are available,” she said.
In addition to energy assistance, the Salvation Army also wants to make Bay City residents aware of its other services.
There will be a food giveaway at 9:30 a.m., Thursday, March 21. Those wishing to attend are recommended to bring their own bags or boxes and to arrive early.
Bay County residents wishing to utilize the Bay City Lions Club’s assistance programs for free glasses or hearing aids should now go to the Salvation Army at 401 10th St. for applications.
The Bay City Lions Sight and Hearing Board will review current applications on the second Tuesday of every month at 1 p.m. at the Westminster Presbyterian Church, 103 East Midland St.
For more information about any of these programs, call 989-893-3041.