General

Helping others, one meal at a time

Job losses, major home or medical bills, and other unexpected expenses are just a few of the reasons people can find themselves struggling to pay their bills.  

When it comes to power bills, OPPD customers have an ally in their corner to help. The utility’s Energy Assistance Program (EAP) can assist qualifying customers with their bills during emergency situations.  

Success of the EAP depends on community partnerships; donations from generous employees and customers; and other fund-raising efforts, including the Heat the Streets Run & Walk for Warmth. 

And this month, there’s another way to contribute to the program. Don & Millie’s has chosen the EAP for its Caring and Sharing fundraising program and will donate 20% of every order – dine in, carry out or drive-thru – directly to EAP on the following days at these locations:  

• Thursday, October 2, 84th and Q streets 
• Tuesday, Oct. 7, 144th and Harrison streets 

Growing need

The need for the program has grown recent years because of rising inflation and decreased assistance funding and availability of community resources. Many program participants are fully employed Nebraskans who don’t qualify for other forms of aid but who still struggle.  

The program accepts households that make up to 200% of the U.S. federal poverty limit. EAP assistance is available to customers throughout OPPD’s 13-county territory. The program is administered by the Dollar Energy Fund, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit. Every dollar donated goes to customers; no program funds go to administrative costs.

Eligible customers receive EPA  funds through a network of more than 30 Community Base Organizations located across OPPD service territory. Applicants receive assistance based on eligibility criteria and availability of funds, with a maximum of $500 in assistance per year.  

OPPD is grateful for this partnership, which is another way to provide assistance to customers in need, reducing financial burdens to helping eligible households breathe a little easier when money is tight.  

For more information on the Energy Assistance Program, visit oppd.com/EAP.