UGI Utilities, Inc. has announced an additional one-time donation of $500,000 to the Operation Share Energy Fund, bringing the company's total contribution this year to $1.7 million. This substantial increase in corporate support comes at a critical time when many customers face heating bill challenges due to delays in federal energy assistance funding.
The timing of this expanded corporate commitment reflects growing concerns about energy affordability during the winter heating season. Dan Adamo, UGI's Vice President of Customer Relations, emphasized the urgency of the situation, stating that the delay in federal funds for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program means some customers require immediate additional assistance. This corporate donation represents UGI's proactive response to bridge the gap created by federal funding delays.
Operation Share has served as a vital community resource since 1983, providing energy assistance grants to qualified customers facing financial hardship. The program operates as a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and receives funding from multiple sources, including UGI customers and concerned citizens who contribute voluntarily. The program functions as a crucial supplement to existing federal and state energy assistance programs, ensuring that vulnerable households maintain access to essential heating services during cold weather months.
The additional $500,000 corporate contribution comes alongside an employee giving campaign beginning this week, demonstrating both corporate and employee commitment to supporting community members in need. UGI works closely with community organizations to distribute Operation Share funds effectively, ensuring assistance reaches those who qualify based on established income requirements and application procedures.
For customers seeking assistance or community members interested in supporting the program, detailed information about application processes, income requirements, and partner organizations is available at https://www.ugi.com/assistance-programs/operation-share/. The same resource provides donation information for individuals wishing to contribute to the Operation Share Fund.
This expanded corporate support underscores the importance of private sector involvement in addressing energy affordability challenges, particularly when government assistance programs face implementation delays. The commitment reflects UGI's stated dedication to providing safe, reliable, and affordable energy service to its more than 760,000 customers across its natural gas and electric utility service areas.
