Consumers Energy Foundation Contributes $150,000 to Provide Access for Free Tax Assistance, Support 2-1-1

JACKSON, Mich., March 24, 2017

"We want people to help us spread the word to friends, family members and neighbors that help is available to pay energy bills," said Chad Miller, Consumers Energy's manager of low-income programs. "It can be as simple as making a phone call or using the expertise of trained tax preparation volunteers who can help families receive the Home Heating Credit and more."

The Consumers Energy Foundation recently provided $150,000 to the Community Economic Development Association of Michigan (CEDAM) to support a statewide coalition providing free tax assistance to financially vulnerable families, individuals and children, using Michigan's 2-1-1 system for referrals and scheduling. The Volunteer Income Tax Assistance program is supported by the Internal Revenue Service that provides people who make roughly $54,000 or less with free assistance in preparing their tax returns.

"Free tax programs are so important to helping Michigan families keep more of what they earn in their pockets," said Ross Yednock, program director of the Michigan Economic Impact Coalition at CEDAM. "Consumer Energy's support of these efforts is critical to ensuring access to this service across our great state, and we are grateful for their continued partnership."

"Michigan families can qualify for hundreds or even thousands of dollars in available tax relief and other programs offered through agency support and Consumers Energy," Miller said. "As many as one in five households will struggle to pay their energy bills. Even if you do not qualify for help, it's important that you let loved ones and friends know where they can turn in times of need."

Miller offered the following resources for anyone who's facing hardship in keeping up with heating bills: