When people ask about Project Help, they inevitably ask why members need help with their electric bills. The answer is as varied as those who complete the paperwork and meet with us to ensure they qualify for this program. We have compiled 4 important facts for you to know about Project Help and the people we support through this program.
What is Project Help?
Our Project Help program was created to help income-qualifying families with $200 of support to offset their electrical bills each heating season. We also help connect them to other organizations for further support.
Who is eligible for assistance?
People qualify by bringing in proof of income. They also must present their picture ID, Social Security card for everyone in the home and proof of income for anyone 18 years or older for the prior month. To be eligible, the person must have been a PenLight member for a minimum of six months, live in the Gig Harbor or Key Peninsula community and must qualify for the income threshold.
Who are the typical recipients?
Frequently, they are 65 or older and on a fixed income. Too often, they have just experienced the worst of life’s losses, whether it be a the death of a spouse, the loss of a job, or the loss of their health.
How do you generate the money for this program?
Members donate in a variety of ways:
- A one-time gift.
- A recurring monthly donation.
- By rounding up each monthly bill to the nearest dollar (average $6 per year).
PenLight matches each donation, dollar-for-dollar. All the money stays local and 100% of your donation goes to help people. We take no administrative fee to manage this program. Last year, we helped more than 650 members and gave more than $100,000 in assistance to local neighbors in need.