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Dear Friend,??

Michiganders are used to the unpredictable Michigan winters. We know that it could be 60 degrees and sunny on Monday and snowing on Friday. That is why it is important that we all take the time to prepare ourselves for freezing Michigan temperatures and the costs of heating our homes. As we say in my family, there?s no such thing as bad weather?only bad gear! By taking precautions, sharing these resources with our loved ones, and asking for help when we need it, we can help every Michigander stay warm and safe this winter.

Sincerely,

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Gretchen Whitmer

Governor

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Utility Assistance Programs

* State Emergency Relief [ [link removed] ] *? *State Emergency Relief is a crisis intervention program that provides assistance for energy-related expenses like heating fuel, electricity, and home repairs. Those who can demonstrate need are encouraged to apply online through MI Bridges [ [link removed] ].??
* Weatherization Assistance Program [ [link removed] ] *? *The Weatherization Assistance Program provides free home energy-conservation services to low-income Michigan homeowners and renters. The services can reduce energy use and lower utility bills. Some of their services include insulation, air leakage reduction, smoke detectors, and dryer venting. These services are conducted by local Community Action Agencies and non-profit organizations. You can contact your local weatherization operator [ [link removed] ] to start the application process.
* Michigan Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) [ [link removed] ] *? *The Michigan Public Service Commission administers the MEAP. The purpose of the MEAP is to establish and administer statewide programs that provide energy assistance and self-sufficiency services to eligible low-income households. To seek help, contact 2-1-1 or your utility company to find programs in your area.

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Warm Up Across the State

If you or your family need a place to escape the cold, make sure to find a warming shelter in your area. Below are links to warming shelters across the state.?

For assistance with housing or shelters that are not listed below, do not hesitate to reach out to my office at 517-335-7858.


* Detroit [ [link removed] ]
* Macomb County [ [link removed] ]
* Ann Arbor [ [link removed] ]
* Pontiac [ [link removed] ]
* Lansing [ [link removed] ]
* Marquette [ [link removed] ]
* Grand Rapids [ [link removed] ]
* Flint [ [link removed] ]?

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Protect Yourself ? Be ?Winterwise?!

This is also an excellent opportunity to remind you about Utility Imposter Scams [ [link removed] ]. Please review this message [ [link removed] ] from Attorney General Dana Nessel on how to identity potential scammers and keep yourself protected.??

Use these tips from the Michigan Office of Highway Safety Planning [ [link removed] ]?on how to be safe on the roads this winter and stock your car with emergency supplies.?

mpsc

The Michigan Public Service Commission also offers excellent tips on how we can all be proactive about conserving energy and being ?winterwise [ [link removed] ].? Some of these tips include:??


* *Shut-Off Protection ? *Senior citizens, low-income customers, those with a medical emergency or in critical care, and military personnel may qualify for shut-off protection. Contact your utility company for more information.
* *Plan Ahead ? *Many utility companies have Budget Billing Plans that can spread out your peak winter heating bills, allowing for a more affordable monthly bill during the heating season. Contact your utility company for more information.
* *Use Energy Wisely ? *Reduce your energy use using these helpful tips [ [link removed] ].
* *Request Assistance ? *Qualifying seniors and low-income customers may be eligible for financial assistance. Call 2-1-1 or visit www.mi211.org [ [link removed] ] to learn about agencies in your county that can help you with your utility bill.
* *Be Helpful ? *Share this information with family and friends! If you are able, you can donate to organizations that provide energy assistance for families in need.
* *Be Proactive ? *Contact your utility company as soon as you know you will be unable to pay your bill on time. Do not wait for a shut-off notice.







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This email was sent to [email protected] using GovDelivery Communications Cloud on behalf of: Michigan Executive Office of the Governor ? 111 S. Capitol Ave ? Lansing, Michigan 48901 GovDelivery logo [ [link removed] ]