Nearly $400,000 donated to help pay power bills

Each year, thousands of Oregonians struggle to cover the cost of necessities such as food, medicine and energy. As economic uncertainty continues, residents that have never before been affected are facing financial troubles. As part of a long-standing partnership with Oregon HEAT, Pacific Power is continuing to help customers in need of energy assistance.

Over the past program year ending June 30, 2012, Pacific Power customers, employees and retirees donated $125,089 to Oregon HEAT, an agency providing energy assistance to Oregon residents. Pacific Power shareholders donated an additional $269,911. As a result, Oregon HEAT helped 2,338 households served by Pacific Power.

“Given our present economy and the some 436,000 Oregonians now at risk of being caught in a financial crisis beyond their ability to manage, we are very apprehensive about this coming winter,” said Roger Rees, executive director of Oregon HEAT, the nonprofit agency that administers funds in Oregon.

“This year, we expect to see a record number of families who are struggling to keep warm and have lights. Thanks to the magnanimous donation of Pacific Power and its family of shareholders, employees and customers our job will be a little easier this year. We will be able to help more families to remain warm in well-lit homes. The Pacific Power family typifies so very well the concept on which Oregon HEAT was founded–neighbor helping neighbor.”

“We see the communities we serve struggle due to the poor economy. Many of our customers have found themselves in unexpected financial circumstances, and needing more help than ever,” said Pat Reiten, president of Pacific Power. “We’re proud to partner with local agencies, like Oregon HEAT, that lend a helping hand.”

Pacific Power customers interested in donating to Oregon HEAT can do so by enrolling in Pacific Power’s fixed donation program or through contribution envelopes included with bills twice a year.

The fixed donation program allows customers to donate any even dollar amount, starting at $1 per month, which is then incorporated into their monthly bill. All donations are tax-deductible and are forwarded to Oregon HEAT, which verifies eligibility and allocates funds to those in need. All funds donated remain within the giver”s county.

To enroll in the fixed donation program call Pacific Power toll-free at 1-888-221-7070.

Customers who need bill assistance themselves can talk with Pacific Power representatives who can help with payment plans that work for their individual needs or direct them to agencies that may be able to help. Pacific Power’s customer service number is 1-888-221-7070.