What if a few cents each month could help ease energy costs for neighbors who might need a little extra support?
Tucson Electric Power customers can round up their bill each month for our Help with Emergency Energy Relief Operation, or HEERO, program. That spare change can help low-income customers cover their energy costs, particularly in the face of rising prices for goods and housing.
Thousands of customers stepped up to help last year, contributing nearly $119,000 to others in need. Since the HEERO program launched in 2011, customers have contributed more than $2 million dollars to support their neighbors.
Donating is easy. You can just round up your bill or contribute a certain amount each month. Your contribution will appear each month as part of your TEP bill.
Every penny customers contribute will benefit low-income residents, as no contributions are used to administer the program. Donations are managed by the Salvation Army, which uses those resources to provide assistance to people identified by the Emergency Services Network, a group of human service agencies that serve Tucson’s low-income population.
The Gomez family is grateful for the support they received through TEP’s HEERO program.
Melissa Gomez fell behind on her electricity bills after her teenage son was killed. A single mom who always worked two jobs to support her family, she had never needed to ask for extra help or support before.
The combination of grief and depression, mixed with trials and court dates, put a strain on Melissa mentally and financially, forcing her to work fewer hours.
While attending an event hosted by local nonprofit organization Homicide Survivors, Melissa connected with the Salvation Army, one of TEP’s partnering organizations that provides bill assistance.
“This support provides security and stability and keeps our house together during a time when I’m experiencing so much stress,” said Melissa. “There’s a lot weighing on me right now. The Salvation Army, through the TEP program, helped take away a lot of stress so that I can concentrate on my family.”
“My family will never forget the help this gave us.”
To get started, please visit https://www.tep.com/heero/ or give us a call at 520-623-7711. You can also manage your donation through My Account or the mobile app.
“The power of community is so evident when you see how much those few coins add up each month,” said Denise Taylor, Director of Customer Service and Programs. “When a caring gesture is multiplied across neighbors who want to help other neighbors, it can really make a big difference for vulnerable families.”
If you need help paying your bill, please visit our website to learn more about payment assistance that might be available to you.
