Utility Bill Assistance
Payment Arrangements
If you’re experiencing a financial hardship, Fountain Utilities encourages you to reach out to The Salvation Army or Goodwill. If a customer does not qualify for utility bill pay assistance, Fountain Utilities may be able to offer an individualized payment arrangement on a case-by-case basis. However, it is important to reach out to the Fountain customer service division before a disconnection. Customers can find out about payment arrangements by calling 719-322-2010.
Listed below are the contact numbers and programs offered for various local agencies:
Salvation Army (LTL & EOC):....................719-382-1182
Discover Goodwill (EOC):.........................888-775-5327 option “7”
Crossfire Ministries (private funds):..........719-640-7442
Mercy's Gate (EOC and private funds):......719-277-7470
Pikes Peak Christian (private funds):.........719-392-9061
Lighten The Load
Lighten the Load (LTL) provides utilities payment assistance to individuals and families throughout our community who are experiencing a financial emergency, regardless of income. LTL is a residential utility assistance program funded in the main by the City and is offered through a partnership with the Salvation Army. LTL is open to all City residents who receive a utility bill from The City of Fountain, and the program is designed to help residents who need temporary assistance to meet their utility obligations to avoid their electric and/or water service from being disconnected due to non-payment.
LTL (Lighten the Load) program information:
· LTL may assist twice during a rolling 12 months.
· Assistance Limit - $750.00.
· Will only cover overdue utility charges.
· LTL does NOT pay fees (tamper fees, late fees, returned payment fees, meter reconnect fees etc.)
· LTL does NOT pay deposits.
· Budget Billing CAN be included during the true up month if there is a balance owed. Lighten the Load Disqualifiers:
· Can NOT assist with a closed account.
· Residents have never made a regular monthly payment on the account.
· Budget Billing for months 1 thru 11.
Do You Need Assistance?
Fountain Utilities partners with local non-profit agencies to administer the Lighten the Load Program. Please contact one of the following agencies to schedule an appointment:
The Salvation Army of the Fountain Valley
208 Cunningham Drive
Colorado Springs, CO 80911
(719) 382-1182
Email: amber.stevens@usw.salvationarmy.org
How Can You Help?
The next time you pay your utility bill, sign up to donate to Lighten the Load! Every dollar of your donation will go towards helping fellow community members. Download the Lighten the Load Donation Form or ask your Customer Service Specialist for assistance the next time you visit the Fountain Utilities Customer Service office.
Lighten the Load Donation Form
Donations may be tax deductible. Please refer to IRS rules or check with your tax professional.
Energy Outreach Colorado
Energy Outreach Colorado (EOC) is a resident utility assistance program offered through local assistance agencies, such as Salvation Army, Discover Goodwill and Mercys Gate. As EOC is a federally funded program, applicants must meet the following mandated qualifying criteria to be considered:
EOC (Energy Outreach Colorado) program information:
· Residents must submit an application with an assistance agency.
· Gross monthly household income must be at or below 80% of the Area Median Income (AMI) for your household size and county.
· Must reside at the address for at least 30 days after a pledge.
· Must be at least 1 day past due on your energy utility bill.
· Allows up to $1,000.00 of assistance.
· Can assist once every budget year, October 1st to September 30th.
Emergency Assistance
Energy Outreach Colorado offers two programs to provide immediate help with energy bills and furnace repairs. Find the support that fits your situation on their website below.