Aren utility companies prevented from shutting off service to poor people in the winter?
While seniors and some low-income citizens are protected from shut-off during the coldest months, this may only delay terminations for those unable to afford service. An inability to pay winter bills may prompt the elderly to forgo needed medication or food in order to keep up payments. A family may cut back on nutrition to be able to meet their obligations, or they may use dangerous alternatives such as kerosene heaters or candles. Families that heat their homes with propane or oil have no protection from shut-off. When the tank is out, there’re out of luck. Through your donations, THAW is there for families in need in winter and in early spring when it is still cold in Michigan and winter protection is ended.
