City provides emergency energy fund for low-income residents

Posted Feb 23, 2012 By EMC News

EMC News -A dip in temperature during the chilly winter months can have the opposite effect on utility bills causing them to rise to a level that adds financial strain to some of the city's most vulnerable residents.

"The city has committed to providing funding to low-income households faced with the heavy burden of high energy bills," said Mayor Jim Watson. "This investment will have a real and direct impact on the lives of some of our residents and their families."

The annual investment of $205,000 will enable the city to help Ottawa residents struggling with energy debts to remain in their homes.

In 2011, the energy fund program assisted more than 200 low-income households. The fund assists residents who are not currently recipients of Ontario disability support programs.

"The city is taking a leadership role in reducing homelessness by implementing real solutions that will improve the lives of many of our residents, while having a positive impact on our entire community," said Mark Taylor, chair of the community and protective services committee.

The energy fund is a component of the city's annual $14-million housing and homeless investment plan.