June 25, 2018 In the Field: Need remains high at April Customer Assistance Day
More than 700 customers in an energy crisis came to THAW’s April Customer Assistance Day to seek help.
The highest turnout for a single Customer Assistance Day this year was not in the middle of winter, it was at the end of April. Families are still struggling to pay their utilities, and over 700 came through the doors at the springtime event. THAW partnered with DTE Energy to hold the event in Eastern Market’s Shed 5 in Detroit.
Throughout the day, customers worked with THAW utility specialists, learned about energy efficiency, met with service organizations and local elected officials. Customers received an energy efficiency toolkit that includes tools to help them save energy and water at home. But the most important thing they left with was a huge sense of relief – knowing they were no longer in danger of having utilities shut off.
“We always get tears,” Sheri McAboy, THAW’s Outreach Director, said about the event, “Especially from those who have been without power for months.”
Sheri attributed the event’s success to its central location, well-trained staff, community and utility partners, and to YOU. You gave THAW the ability to give so many families that relief.
“When the cold weather goes away, the need doesn’t go away with it. Families still need utilities in the summer, especially the medically vulnerable, many of whom will need electricity to run medical equipment at home.”
THAW continues to assist families throughout the summer, and we need your help. Please make a gift today to keep families healthy, safe, and warm.