Washington State's Grant PUD is strengthening its commitment to local families and individuals facing financial hardship by increasing the annual Share the Light energy assistance benefit from $300 to $500 per household, it said in early November.
Funded primarily through voluntary customer and employee donations, Share the Light is a community-driven program designed to provide a helping hand when it is needed most.
The enhanced benefit -- part of Grant PUD's Customer Service Policy update effective Nov. 1 -- will help eligible customers reduce past-due balances and avoid service disruptions.
"Grant County has always been a community that looks out for one another," said Cary West, Senior Manager of Customer Solutions. "By increasing Share the Light assistance, we can provide greater relief to customers experiencing financial challenges and help to ensure they can maintain essential electric service."
In addition to expanding Share the Light assistance, Grant PUD will continue offering its 20% income-qualified rate discount for eligible residential customers, providing year-round savings and long-term affordability.
Customers are being encouraged to explore both programs to determine whether they qualify for assistance.
Together, Share the Light and the income-qualified rate discount provide meaningful financial support for residents who need it most, West said.
Community members interested in supporting Share the Light can make voluntary donations to help neighbors in need by calling a customer service number or when they pay their power bill.
Other changes to the Customer Service Policy include clarifying language on the following:
- Grant PUD's BudgetPay level-billing program
- How late payment charges accrue
- When after-hours fees apply for service callouts.
