Two bill-assistance efforts lead by LPEA – the COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund and the Giving Tree Program – have disbursed nearly $65,000 in funds to support more than 860 LPEA members in need.

Originally approved by the LPEA Board of Directors in March 2020, the $50,000 LPEA COVID-19 Emergency Relief Fund was fully exhausted this month. The fund helped 438 residential members and 24 small business members struggling to pay their LPEA bill due to pandemic-related economic hardship.

LPEA’s annual Giving Tree Program also helped members in need, collecting a record $14,500 to help more than 400 members struggling to pay their LPEA bill – $3,500 more than last year. This annual program allows LPEA members to donate to other members who need a little extra help during the holiday season.

“It’s been really heartening to see the outpouring of support within our community during recent times of need,” said LPEA Member Service Manager Aubrey Gillespie. “These have been difficult times for so many people, and it’s been our absolute pleasure and honor to help them with the funds allocated by our board and donated by our members. We are really blessed to live in this community.”

For LPEA members still struggling to pay their bill, there are assistance funds remaining through other agencies. Call LPEA for details, or visit lpea.coop/late-payments-and-bill-pay-assistance