Programs that provide financial assistance for people who are at risk of having their utilities cut of and have exhausted all other sources of financial assistance. Emergency Financial Assistance provides emergency relief to eligible low-income customers experiencing difficulty paying current arrears. Funds are applied to outstanding utility bill payments, not to security deposit payments due.

Festival Hydro - for information on Assistance Programs including Energy Affordability Program HERE

LEAP for hydro assistance - Low-income Energy Support Program (LEAP) - click here for general information. Emergency payment of electricity bill up to $650 ($780 if home electrically heated) per calendar year which is credited directly to electricity bill. Support is available from the City of Stratford Social Services, 519-271-3773 Ext 272 Mon-Fri 8:30 am-4:30 pm. To qualify must be an existing customer of Festival Hydro, reside at the address in arrears and have an after tax income below established thresholds.

Ontario Electricity Support Program (OESP) - monthly discount on hydro bills through Ontario Energy Board. Call 1-855-831-8151 for application or apply online HERE.

Enbridge or Union Gas - call 1-855-487-5327 or EMAIL. Managed by United Way Simcoe Muskoka

Other Resources in Perth County:

1. Salvation Army, Family Services - Listowel Salvation Army Family Services PER1213) - help people with LEAP and OESP applications.

2. The Local Community Food Centre PER2647 - provide assistance with OESP applications

3. Stratford Social Services Department -Housing Stability Bank - Managed by the Ontario Works Office 519-271-3773 Ext 200. Financial assistance for people experiencing homelessness to obtain and retain housing and to people at risk of becoming homeless to remain housed. Available to residents of Perth County, Stratford and St. Marys. See record CWD0018