Traverse City Light & Power (TCLP) is launching a new local energy-assistance program in collaboration with the Salvation Army to support customers facing challenges in paying their utility bills. Set to begin on October 1, the program will assist eligible customers with their TCLP electric bills and some home-heating costs.
Key Details:
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Target Group: The initiative focuses on low-income households, including young families, seniors on fixed incomes, and individuals with disabilities.
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Application Process:
- Customers will receive an application through TCLP.
- TCLP will verify the customer’s active electric account and refer the application to the Salvation Army.
- The Salvation Army will review applications, verify income, and check eligibility based on state income guidelines.
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Eligibility: Applicants must:
- Be Michigan residents.
- Have an active TCLP electric account.
- Fall below 60% of the state median income.
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Timeline: Assistance for those who are past due or facing disconnection could be available within a week to ten days if they qualify.
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Funding: The program is financed through a surcharge from TCLP customers, which will help keep funds localized rather than routed through a state program.
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Application Availability: Applications will be accessible starting October 1. Assistance is contingent on eligibility, available funding, and capacity of the agency.
Linda Stark from the Salvation Army emphasizes that the program aims to help families resume normalcy in their utility payments, offering relief to those in urgent need.
