Ameren Missouri donates 100 air conditioners to Southeast Missouri families in need
FOX23 News at 9 p.m
CAPE GIRARDEAU, Mo. (KBSI) — Ameren Missouri has donated 100 ENERGY STAR-certified window air conditioners to community action agencies across southeast Missouri to help vulnerable residents stay safe during the summer heat.
The air conditioners were distributed through several agencies, including East Missouri Action Agency. Ameren Missouri said the energy-efficient units’ cost, on average, less than $1 a day to operate.
“Summers in Missouri can get dangerously hot, so we encourage customers to use their air conditioners to stay safe and protect their health as temperatures soar,” said Russ Burger, southeast division director for Ameren Missouri.
The giveaway marks the 21st year Ameren Missouri has partnered with Cooldownmissouri.org to distribute free window air conditioners across the state. The company said it has donated more than 20,000 units to Missourians in need over the past two decades.
Older adults, people with disabilities and low- to moderate-income families are encouraged to apply for energy assistance through Cooldownmissouri.org.
East Missouri Action Agency officials said the donated air conditioners will provide immediate relief for families facing financial hardship.
Ameren Missouri also reminded customers that several energy assistance programs are available for those who need help paying utility bills. Programs include assistance for veterans, the Dollar More program, LIHEAP Summer Crisis Assistance, Keeping Cool bill credits, the Critical Medical Needs Program, weatherization assistance and flexible payment arrangements.
The utility also offers energy efficiency programs for income-eligible households, including the Community Savers Single Family and Community Savers Multifamily programs, which provide no-cost or enhanced incentives for energy-saving upgrades.
