(WXYZ) — Consumers Energy said it is committing $12 million to help Michigan residents and small businesses with energy bills.
"We stand with Michigan and are working around the clock to help our friends and neighbors through a time like no other," said Patti Poppe, Consumers Energy's president and chief executive officer, in a press relase. "Our company's $12 million contribution will provide a lifeline to many families and businesses, helping them stay on their feet until we can defeat the pandemic and Michigan can fully reopen."
The company has set a goal to help about 25,000 households and 1,000 small businesses with this new assistance. The funding will go directly to customers in need and to Michigan nonprofit organizations.
The best way for people to get help is to call 2-1-1, a free service that connects people with nonprofit agencies in their communities, including the new financial help that Consumers Energy is announcing. If a Consumers Energy customer is struggling to pay a bill, they also can call 800-477-5050.
"We knew from the start this pandemic would create unimaginable challenges for many people and businesses," said Brian Rich, Consumers Energy's chief customer officer, in a press release. "We're talking about our neighbors, our friends and even our co-workers. We know we have an obligation to help our communities stay resilient through this time."
Consumers Energy said it is also working to keep energy costs low for customers this winter.
