Since prices on this winter's gas and electric bills are expected to be higher than previous years, Pacific Gas and Electric announced Monday that it would expand a current assistance program which helps low-income families afford the higher bills.
Relief for Energy Assistance through Community Help (REACH) is a program which started in 1983 in conjunction with the Salvation Army to aid customers with incomes of up to 150 percent of the federal poverty level. In response to the higher bills, PG&E is expanding the service to families whose income is up 200 percent of the federal poverty level, or $34,100 for a family of four. The families can receive a maximum of $300 in assistance.
"Gas prices are significantly higher than last year and it is a hardship on some of our customers," said Staci Homrig, spokesperson for PG&E. "This will basically allow more people to qualify."
About 400,000 people have used the program since its inception and Homrig said the company is braced for a lot of people who will need help this winter. "We expect the number of people interested will increase this month," she said. "We'll make sure everyone who needs assistance will get it."
The average bill for a family of four this winter will be $77, compared to $50 last year, according to Homrig.
The Salvation Army is responsible for administering the program and customers interested in applying for REACH should contact the Salvation Army at : 1-800-933-9677.
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