FLORENCE, Ala — Florence Utilities has partnered with the Help Center to help provide utility assistance to those in need in Lauderdale County with "Project Help."
Citizens can help provide utility assistance to the elderly, disabled and those in need by adding a small donation to their monthly utility bill. Florence Utilities stressed that they are the only organization collecting donations for the Project Help fund.
Florence Utilities said that every dollar donated to the project will go through the Help Center to aid those in need.
"COVID 19 has placed an increased burden on citizens in every aspect of their lives. It has also increased the need for assistance with basic needs such as housing, food, and utilities," said Florence Utilities Customer Service Manager Sandie Preedom. "It is easy for customers to donate small amounts through their monthly utility bill to the Help Center. All donations go directly to assist people in this community. Customers will be receiving a flyer in their bill this month with a signature form that can be returned with their payment. The Project Help donation will be added to the customer's utility bill each month. This is a great way to help fellow citizens during such a difficult time. We look forward to growing and continuing our partnership with the Help Center."
Customers can automatically draft monthly donations to the project by signing the authorization card that will be included in your next utility bill or online. Additionally, donations can be sent directly to the Help Center at P.O. Box 1713, Florence, Alabama, 35630.
Project Help provides those in need monetary assistance up to $100 for utility costs on final bill notices. The assistance provided is on a first-call basis.
"Current circumstances have resulted in a tremendous increase in the number of families needing help paying their utility bills," Help Center Board President Cindy Young said. "We try to help as many as possible; however, the demand is far greater than the financial donations we receive by individuals or through Project Help."
