ENTF

The Kent County Essential Needs Task Force is also provided financial and in-kind support by:

Heart of West Michigan United Way

Department of Human Services

Utility / Conservation Subcommittee

Purpose

Addressing utility emergencies, weatherization, conservation and education.

Facts

  • The DHS Energy Direct Program was terminated resulting in a $2 million decrease in assistance expenditures from 2006.
  • Heating assistance challenges continue: annual natural gas costs in 2003 were $662 and in 2006 averaged $1,298.
  • GVSU/Seidman Business School data shows that 83% of poverty households spend about 25% of income on utilities.

2007-2008 Accomplishments

  • Secured local, 2007 Kent County Senior Millage and Community Development weatherization funds offsetting federal/ state reductions while working with the Coalition To Keep Michigan Warm (CTKMW) to increase 2008 federal LIHEAP resources.
  • Stabilized utility funds year round through better local utility/ conservation partner coordination when MDHS SER/Energy Direct utility company payments were eliminated.
  • Worked with partners: CTKMW, State Legislators, Utility Companies to get resources earlier in the heat season.
  • Streamlined local client requirements on second or more requests for help, requiring energy conservation training prior to receiving utility assistance.
  • Added payment efficiencies to utility assistance by working with the ENTF Coalition to End Homelessness, coordinating utility and shelter subsidies.
  • ACSET, Home Repair Services and Steepletown Ministries ran 42 Conservation Workshops for 386 households.

2008-2009 Agenda

  • Work on more funding for Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) SER/Home Weatherization.
  • Work with the City of Grand Rapids for better rental energy efficiency standards.
  • Expand conservation education in schools / community.
  • Develop a work plan for better utility spending / conservation strategies that expand poor people’s budgets.
  • Work locally to build a major Kent County presence at the Michigan Poverty Summit in November 2008.
  • Continue to support poor people’s self-sufficiency by coordinating housing and utility assistance strategies with the ENTF Coalition to End Homelessness.