Helping our communities stay warm year-round is one of Atmos Energy’s highest priorities and is reflected in our commitment to Fueling Safe and Thriving Communities. In partnership with a variety of energy assistance programs, we help eligible customers experiencing financial hardship pay their natural gas bills on time every month. One such federally funded program, the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), is observed each year on LIHEAP Action Day – an annual event in February that raises awareness and support through the efforts of advocacy groups, utility companies, non-profits, and community organizations.

LIHEAP, established in 1981 and administered by the Department of Health and Human Services, helps millions of U.S. families pay for the energy they need to heat their homes, particularly during the winter months when utility bills are often at their highest. The importance of LIHEAP Action Day lies in its responsibility to raise awareness of and secure funding for this vital program as advocates, organizations, and individuals partner with elected officials to increase support for this program.

During LIHEAP Action Day, participants from around the country take part in a variety of advocacy activities in Washington, D.C. In addition to raising awareness, LIHEAP Action Day is also an opportunity for organizations and individuals to educate their communities about the program and the ways in which it can help our neighbors. For example, advocates may provide information about how to apply for LIHEAP assistance and what documents are needed, as well as other resources like Sharing the Warmth that can help families reduce their energy bills.

Sharing the Warmth is an Atmos Energy program supported by donations from customers and the company itself, with funds distributed to local nonprofit organizations that provide utility bill assistance. This past year, Sharing the Warmth received customer contributions totaling $1.15 million which were supplemented by Atmos Energy contributions of $3 million. These generous donations enabled us to partner with 119 nonprofit organizations across the eight states we serve – helping 25,200 eligible individuals pay their natural gas bills. These funds not only provide support to customers for utility bills but also home weatherization upgrades and repair and replacement of customer-owned natural gas appliances and piping.

In 2022, through intentional outreach, education, and communication with its community action agencies, nonprofits, and customers, Atmos Energy helped more than 67,000 households gain access to $34 million through LIHEAP, Sharing the Warmth, and other programs. Already in the first quarter of fiscal year 2023, our Energy Assistance team has helped 16,609 households gain access to more than $6.1 million, which is an average of $368.26 per customer.

Every year, LIHEAP Action Day provides an opportunity for organizations and individuals to come together and advocate for the needs of our most vulnerable neighbors, helping to ensure that the program continues receiving the support it needs to meet families’ energy needs. It is one of many ways that Atmos Energy is Fueling Safe and Thriving Communities and Making a Difference in the places we call home.

For more information about LIHEAP and other bill payment assistance programs in your area, please visit https://www.atmosenergy.com/assistance