Energy Assistance Requests Surge, More Funds Available

DENVER, Feb. 1, 2011 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Energy Outreach Colorado and the Colorado Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) are responding to a dramatic increase in requests for energy assistance this winter among Coloradans hard-hit by the lingering economic crisis.  These two organizations provide the safety net for limited income families and the elderly who face having their home energy shut off because they can't afford to pay their utility bill.

(Logo: http://photos.prnewswire.com/prnh/20100608/EOCLOGO)

These agencies report that, between October 2010 and January 2011, compared to the same period in 2009:

• Energy assistance funds distributed by Energy Outreach Colorado increased 32 percent, from $832,000 to $1,100,000.
• The number of overdue energy bills paid by EOC partner agencies increased 25 percent, from 2,682 to 3,355.
• To date, the number of households approved to receive energy assistance from LEAP has increased 13 percent, from 81,352 to 91,652.
• The average amount in energy assistance that EOC is providing per qualifying household is up 6 percent, from $310 to $328.

Energy Outreach Colorado, the only non-profit in the state that raises funds for energy assistance, is distributing $1,657,962 this week in additional energy assistance to 131 emergency assistance sites across the state.  

"Many of Colorado's limited income families and seniors are overwhelmed by their heating bills this winter, particularly if they've experienced a job layoff or other difficulties," said Skip Arnold, executive director of Energy Outreach Colorado.  

To locate a nearby emergency assistance organization with energy assistance funds available, or make a donation, go to www.EnergyOutreach.org or call toll free 1-866-HEAT-HELP (1-866-432-8435).

About Energy Outreach Colorado

Energy Outreach Colorado is the only independent, non-profit organization in the state that raises money to help limited income Coloradans afford home energy.  Since 1989, EOC has raised more than $136 million to fund energy bill payment assistance and energy efficiency upgrades for affordable housing.  Energy Outreach relies on individual donations, corporate contributions and foundation grants.  It has received top ratings from Charity Navigator for nine consecutive years and is an accredited charity member of the Better Business Bureau.  Energy Outreach Colorado, www.EnergyOutreach.org, can be reached at 303-825-8750 or at 225 E. 16^th Ave., Ste. 200, Denver, CO  80203-1612.

SOURCE Energy Outreach Colorado

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