utility assistance | a step toward stability, not a sign of failure.
Utility assistance is an essential service for thousands of households in Kent County. In 2023, more than 19,000 payments were issued, providing over $6 million in assistance to help residents maintain access to electricity, heating, and water. While the need is great, many individuals are reluctant to seek the help they require. This hesitation often stems from stigma, misinformation, or a lack of understanding about how to apply for assistance. In response, Kent County’s Essential Needs Task Force is spearheading a campaign this October to reduce the stigma around utility assistance and encourage those in need to reach out for support.
The Challenge of Stigma
When individuals face financial difficulties for the first time, asking for help can feel daunting. Many people experience feelings of shame, fear, embarrassment, or even isolation when they consider applying for assistance. These emotional barriers, combined with practical concerns such as income qualifications, long wait times, and capped funding, can prevent individuals from accessing the services they need.
The stigma surrounding utility assistance often arises from societal misconceptions. Needing help with utility bills is sometimes viewed as a personal failure, rather than a response to broader economic challenges. The truth is, access to affordable utilities is a basic human right, and no one should feel ashamed of seeking help to maintain vital services.
A Collaborative Campaign
Recognizing the importance of addressing this stigma, a collaborative group of nonprofit organizations and government agencies in Kent County, has come together to create a public awareness campaign. The goal is to break down barriers and provide clear information to individuals who might hesitate to ask for help.
The initiative will roll out over five weeks, with a series of social media posts designed to engage the community, share client stories, and educate people about the process of applying for utility assistance. These posts will highlight the experiences of individuals who have benefited from assistance programs, offering reassurance that reaching out for help is a step toward stability, not a sign of failure.
Real Lives, Real Impact
The stories of Kent County residents who have sought utility assistance highlight just how vital these services can be. One client described their experience, saying, “Owing Consumers Energy much more than I could pay, I was going to bed at night not knowing if we were going to have electricity. Our household members included a child with autism and my spouse who is a stroke victim. It was a very scary time in our lives. We reached out to True North, who assisted our family right away. They were able to get us on a program with Consumers Energy that made our payments reasonable, and they are helping us pay off our past due amount. I am forever grateful for their help and kindness.”
This story, like many others, demonstrates the peace of mind and security that utility assistance can provide during times of hardship.
Let’s work together to spread the message that there is no shame in seeking help and that support is available for everyone in our community.
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United Way's 2-1-1 connects people to thousands of services across Michigan. Services include food, shelter, utility assistance, disaster recovery, childcare, transportation, and more. Whoever you are, whatever your needs, 2-1-1 makes it easy to find help for yourself, a neighbor, or a loved one.