Faces of THAW
Recipients of THAW assistance include elderly, children, unemployed, underemployed and disabled individuals who find themselves in an energy crisis. More than 70% of the households we assist have a child or senior in the home. These populations can become particularly vulnerable during the cold seasons.
Learn MoreFaces of Thaw - 1 minute 9 seconds
Our Mission
The Heat and Warmth Fund (THAW) is stabilizing and empowering Michigan families, keeping them healthy, safe and warm.
THAW, an independent 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, distributes assistance to vulnerable Michigan residents through 39 agency partners and a series of annual mobile processing events. The number of households that need utility assistance continues to grow each year. Last year THAW distributed more than $7.6 million in utility assistance to nearly 10,000 Michigan households, and we could not have done that without your help.
Since its inception in 1985, THAW has distributed $216 million in assistance to almost 300,000 Michigan households.
Across Michigan, 40% of households (1.54m) struggle to afford the basic needs of housing, including energy.
More than 55% of families THAW serves have a child, senior, or veteran in the household.
About 90% of every dollar goes to those in need.
News & Events
13th Annual Week of Warmth + Night of Warm Hearts
The Heat and Warmth Fund (THAW), in its 37th year of service, is again partnering with DTE Energy for the 2022 Week of Warmth to kick off the Season of Need. The Week of Warmth is a series of activities and events designed to highlight the significant need of thousands of low-income and vulnerable Michiganders who struggle to pay utility bills.
24th Annual Birdie Fore Warmth
Join the Utility Workers Union of America Local 223 Gas Division and DTE Energy for the 24th Annual Birdie Fore Warmth golf outing! This event raises essential funds for the low-income Michigan households that THAW supports More information can be found here.
The Warmth Connection - Spring 2022 Newsletter
Spring is here is Michigan! Many are looking forward to warmer weather after a long winter. Unfortunately, many families still have overdue winter utility bills, and THAW is here to help. Since 1985 THAW has distributed $216 million in assistance to almost 300,000 Michigan households.