UWSCMI’s Program Assistance Center (PAC) does more than help light up houses through utility assistance; they also light up lives.
Take Jackie.* When she called PAC to address her past-due utility bills, Jackie felt she’d reached a low point. A single mom of three, she didn’t have a job and was struggling financially. PAC provided support and a new payment schedule that kept her home connected to utilities, and also enrolled her in a program that delivered monthly financial and personal coaching and goal-setting.
During the past year, Jackie landed a new job, earned a promotion, began studying for her GED and kept up with her monthly energy payments. What’s more, she’s confident in herself and her family’s path ahead.
“That’s the power of PAC—connecting people to resources that allows them to regain their footing and build their future,” said Bethany Stutzman, Senior Director for Community Impact.
UWSCMI’s Program Assistance Center provides help for utility users statewide who fall behind on their energy bills. Anyone can call regardless of their provider. PAC also works with each person individually to understand their situation and connect them to other programs and resources that can support their progress toward self-sufficiency.
United Way of South Central Michigan provides the staff and expertise to assist callers. The bulk of funding comes through the Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP), with additional support from Consumers Energy and DTE.
MEAP funds alone allowed PAC to accomplish the following during the 2023-24 program year, which ended Sept. 30:
- $4,096,171 in direct assistance provided to Michigan households
- 4,756 households provided with direct assistance
- 4,875 households provided with self-sufficiency services
- 6,313 households provided with any service type (direct assistance and/or self-sufficiency services)
Stutzman said PAC already has hundreds of new applications in process for the new program year.
“We’re so proud of our 20-member team taking the calls, being supportive, asking the right questions and getting people connected to the resources they need,” she said.
Shania* is another example of the team’s great work. Through PAC, Shania got on a payment plan that she could afford while the program covered a portion. By sticking to the plan for two years, her past-due total will be forgiven. That’s relieved her anxiety, allowed her to stay comfortable in her home, and even made it possible to make energy-efficiency improvements and fix her roof.
“PAC isn’t just about dollars and numbers,” said Stutzman. “It’s about bringing hope and help to people to make their lives better.”
If you or someone you know needs help with utility costs, contact the Program Assistance Center at 517-741-0202 or PAC@UWEnergyHelp.org, or visit this webpage. Applications are available.
*Name changed for confidentiality