Spire announces $500,000 in additional financing for limited-income customers

ST. LOUIS – Winter is just around the corner and lower temperatures and higher heating costs will soon arrive. For Spire customers with limited incomes, the utility is providing an additional $500,000 to help people pay their bills.

“We definitely know there is a need out there,” said Vonda Cotton, community outreach specialist at Spire.

She sees the need for funding in our community.

“We can alleviate some of that stress for our customers by providing them with information and access to some of our utility assistance programs,” Cotton said.

Earlier this year, the Missouri Public Service Commission approved Spire Missouri’s additional half-million dollar commitment. Funds will support low-income heating assistance, including air conditioning and the critical medical needs program. It helps customers in medical emergencies keep their gas running while their health issues are addressed.

“We’re definitely going to pause this for 30 days so they can get some relief without any risk of interruption or loss of service,” Cotton said.

Participation in the program requires certification from a health care provider or social worker, Cotton said. This is just one way Spire customers can find relief during difficult times. Relief Vonda Cotton is happy to help and the people of St. Louis are grateful for it.

“Just seeing the smiles or even getting the hugs, that’s actually what it means to me,” Cotton said.