Lee Erwin Reporting
lerwin@clarksvillenow.com
CLARKSVILLE, Tenn. – As cold temperatures grip the region this winter, many people are having problems, or may have difficulty paying their utility bills, especially when it comes to electric bills. One of the organizations helping the community is Urban Ministries.
Urban Ministries Executive Director, Beverly Dycus, says they have seen an increase in families needing help and there may be more in February when people receive the bills for this January cold spell. At this time Dycus said they are averaging around 45 families per day.
“We do have some funds to assist with that. We receive community development block grant funds through the City of Clarksville, so with that grant we are being able to assist with utilities. We also receive donations from those in the community who want to be a blessing to others,” said Dycus.
Dycus added the organization gets donations from churches, civic groups and businesses and those individuals who have a little extra and want to share with those who are struggling. With the funds they have Urban Ministries is able to help with electricity along with other utilities like gas and water.
Urban Ministries is always in need of funds from community donations to assist families in paying their utility bills. The organization not only serves Clarksville-Montgomery County, but also the surrounding counties of Cheatham, Dickson, Houston, Humphries, Robertson and Stewart counties.
Anyone needing help is asked to please call Urban Ministries at 931-648-9090 before stopping by their office to make sure they will be able to provide for each person’s needs.