A PECO worker disables electric service to a house. File photo.
Could a one-time grant of $500 help your family amid rising energy costs?
The United Way of Bucks County has partnered with PECO to launch a new $10 million program in the Philadelphia region.
The PECO Customer Relief Fund is aimed at providing financial assistance to eligible customers in “ALICE” households — Asset Limited, Income Constrained, Employed — as energy costs increase.
“ALICE individuals are the backbone of our community – the healthcare workers, childcare providers, and retail associates we rely on every day – and they’re barely getting by,” said Marissa Christie, president and CEO of United Way of Bucks County. “We’re proud to partner with PECO to offer real, tangible relief at a time when so many are facing increased costs and tough choices. This fund is an exceptional complement to our ongoing work for ALICE families: providing early education scholarships, help with transportation, and support at our HELP Center.”
Christie said the fund complements the United Way’s ongoing work for ALICE families, including providing early education scholarships and help with transportation.
The PECO Customer Relief Fund is funded by PECO’s parent company Exelon and will provide one-time $500 grants.
PECO President and CEO David Vahos said the fund allows the company to provide immediate assistance while also working with officials on long-term solutions.
“PECO has deep roots in our community and we’re proud to do our part during this challenging time as local families struggle with overall inflation pressures, including energy bills. PECO provides a critical service that keeps our communities safe, healthy and strong,” Vahos said.
To qualify for a one-time $500 grant, customers must meet several criteria, including being a current PECO residential customer with a past-due balance of $2,000 or less. They must not have received the grant before, and must have had no theft-of-service charges in the past year.
For the program, a household’s income must be between 151% and 300% of the federal poverty level. For example, a family of four earning between $48,546 and $96,450 may qualify.
Customers can find more information and eligibility details at UWBucks.org/pecohelp.
Applications are available at PECO.com/relief and will be accepted through December or until all funds have been used.
