PUD customers challenged to support program

Wahkiakum PUD Commissioner Dennis Reid is challenging system customers to help less fortunate residents by making a contribution to a fund set up to help residents with power and water bills.

The Residential Energy Assistance Program (REAP) collects funds in a designated account. People may apply once a year for assistance with their water or power bill. Wahkiakum Health and Human Services reviews applications, and for those qualifying, the eligible amount will be deducted from their power PUD bill.

"This is a program that enables you to help your neighbors that need help paying their electric and water bills to the PUD," Reid said. "It is very easy to make a contribution of any amount. You can make a contribution on your monthly PUD payment. Just fill in the blank on the statement and add the amount to the bill, or you could set up a monthly contribution through the PUD office.

"A one-time contribution of any amount is also welcomed. If only half the PUD rate payers made a monthly contribution of just $1, the program would be well funded."

Reid challenged customers to contribute to the fund. "Make a contribution of any amount and know that you helped keep a neighbor warm and the water turned on," he said.