Columbus – The Salvation Army, in partnership with Columbia Gas of Ohio, proudly announces the expansion of the HeatShare Program, a vital initiative that provides critical assistance to Ohioans struggling to keep their homes warm during the winter months. Building on over two decades of collaboration, this partnership continues to shine as a beacon of hope for individuals and families in Ohio.
Key Features of the HeatShare Expansion:
- Enhanced Funding and Reach: Columbia Gas of Ohio will initially contribute $700,000 to the program, and could ultimately fund up to $3.5 million, enabling more households to access grants of up to $450 to maintain or restore gas service.
- Expanded Eligibility: HeatShare now serves individuals earning up to 300% of the federal poverty level—doubling the previous limit of 150%—to help ensure broader support for those navigating economic hardships.
- Local Impact: Administered by The Salvation Army, which has a strong presence in all counties within Columbia Gas’s service territory, the program helps ensure direct, localized support for struggling families.
Major Tricia Brennan, Area Coordinator for The Salvation Army in Central Ohio, expressed her gratitude, saying, “For over two decades, Columbia Gas of Ohio has been a trusted partner in bringing warmth, hope, and relief to families in need. Together, we are making a real difference, ensuring that no Ohioan is left in the cold.”
How to Access HeatShare
Eligible customers of Columbia Gas of Ohio can apply for HeatShare grants through The Salvation Army’s online portal at SAHelp.me or by contacting their local Salvation Army office. Caseworkers will assist applicants in completing the required forms and documentation.
A Trusted Partnership of Over Two Decades
Since the late 1990s, Columbia Gas of Ohio and The Salvation Army have worked shoulder to shoulder, united in their commitment to meet essential human needs. The HeatShare program reflects this shared dedication, ensuring vulnerable populations have access to warmth and safety when they need it most. Columbia Gas of Ohio was honored with The Salvation Army’s prestigious Need Knows No Season award in 2018, a testament to their unwavering support and invaluable contributions to the community.
“As the cold weather approaches, we know that many Ohioans struggle with how they will make ends meet. We are pleased to expand the HeatShare program in partnership with The Salvation Army, and we hope this initiative will provide timely assistance and enable our customers in need to manage their bills,” said Robert Heidorn, President and COO of Columbia Gas of Ohio.
Empowering Communities Through Action
HeatShare is just one example of Columbia Gas of Ohio’s commitment to making a tangible difference. Beyond their financial contributions to The Salvation Army, the organization fosters a culture of compassion and volunteerism. From participation in the Holiday Angel Tree Toy drive, to supporting children’s initiatives like the LemonAiD Campaign, Columbia Gas of Ohio continues to engage its employees in meaningful ways that strengthen communities and nurture a spirit of generosity.
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About The Salvation Army
The Salvation Army helped nearly 27 million people in 2023 overcome poverty, addiction, and economic hardships through a range of social services. By providing food, shelter, eviction prevention assistance, emergency disaster relief, rehabilitation, after-school and summer youth programs, spiritual enrichment, and more, The Salvation Army is doing the most good at nearly 6,400 centers of operation around the country. For more information, visit SalvationArmyUSA.org. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram @Salvationarmyusa.
About Columbia Gas of Ohio
Columbia Gas of Ohio delivers clean, dependable and efficient natural gas to approximately 1.5 million customers across the state. With headquarters in Columbus, it is the largest natural gas utility in Ohio. Columbia Gas of Ohio is one of six regulated utility companies of NiSource (NYSE: NI), one of the largest fully-regulated utility companies in the United States. NiSource employees are focused on our mission to deliver safe, reliable energy that drives value to our customers, and guided by our vision to be an innovative and trusted energy partner. More information about Columbia Gas of Ohio and NiSource, including its goal of achieving net zero greenhouse gas emissions from its operations by 2040, is available at www.ColumbiaGasOhio.com and www.NiSource.com.
