JACKSON, Mich., Aug. 6 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- The Salvation Army
and Consumers Energy celebrated today the 25th anniversary of the
PeopleCare program, which provides emergency assistance for families and
individuals in need across Michigan.
State Sen. Mark Schauer, of Battle Creek, and state Rep. Mike Simpson,
of Jackson, joined leaders from The Salvation Army and Consumers Energy
executives and employees at the utility's headquarters to mark the
program's silver anniversary.
Since it was established in 1983, PeopleCare -- a joint effort of The
Salvation Army and the utility -- has helped 302,228 households in
Michigan. Consumers Energy employees and customers have donated nearly
$12.4 million to support PeopleCare, and the utility has contributed $25.3
million in energy bill credits for total support of $37.7 million.
The Salvation Army and Consumers Energy created PeopleCare to provide
food, shelter, clothing, energy bill assistance, and other emergency aid to
those in need. The Salvation Army determines eligibility for energy bill
credits and other help and distributes the aid on a case by case basis. The
Salvation Army also provides comprehensive social services, including
substance abuse treatment, prenatal care, and family counseling.
Major James Nauta, divisional commander of The Salvation Army of
Western Michigan, said the support of Consumers Energy and its customers
and employees makes a real difference in the lives of those in need.
"There's a growing need in Michigan for the type of assistance that we
can provide through PeopleCare. Every dollar we get through PeopleCare is
put to use helping people who have no other place to turn. The Salvation
Army focuses on 'Doing the most good,' and PeopleCare truly helps us do
that," Nauta said.
John Russell, the president and chief operating officer of Consumers
Energy, said the utility and its employees are proud of their relationship
with The Salvation Army and supporting its work of helping families and
individuals in need for the past 25 years.
"In today's challenging economy, there are more and more families and
individuals struggling to make ends meet. We recognize that need and as a
company and as individuals, we're stepping forward to help in a variety of
ways. Helping those in need is an integral part of our corporate culture,"
Russell said.
Those who would like to contribute to PeopleCare may send their
donations to:
PeopleCare
Consumers Energy
Lansing, Mich. 48937-0001
Consumers Energy customers who would like to make monthly donations to
PeopleCare may call 1-800-477-5050 and arrange for a contribution to be
added to their energy bills.
Consumers Energy, the principal subsidiary of CMS Energy, provides
natural gas and electricity to nearly 6.5 million of Michigan's 10 million
residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties.
SOURCE The Salvation Army
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Related links:
http://www.salvationarmyusa.org
http://www.consumersenergy.com
http://www.prnewswire.com/comp/203850.html /
CONTACT:
Matt Saganski of The Salvation Army,
+1-616-915-4991; or Jeff Holyfield of Consumers Energy,
+1-517-788-2394
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