Mississippi Power has again donated $25,000 to the American Red Cross to help provide energy assistance to customers in the company’s southeast Mississippi service area. The donation goes to the same fund as customer contributions from Project Share, which Red Cross distributes to low-income, elderly or disabled customers in need.

“We understand that situations or emergencies can arise that make it hard for some customers to pay their bills,” said company spokesman Kurt Brautigam. “These funds provide a means for helping those truly in need.”

Mississippi Power has contributed approximately $575,000 for energy assistance since 1984. Customers have contributed more than $178,000 through Project Share, which was initiated in 2002. An enrollment campaign for that program is currently underway. To date, nearly 4,000 customers have enrolled.

“The energy assistance programs are designed to help people with particularly unusual circumstances,” said Brautigam. “Elderly and disabled people often can’t overcome unexpected expenses such as those caused by unusually cold weather or unexpected medical bills.

“Red Cross reaches each of the communities we serve and has been a partner with us for 20 years. They know the needs in the community and are experienced in providing similar assistance programs.”

For further information about the program or to apply for assistance, individuals should contact their local Red Cross chapter office.

Mississippi Power, a subsidiary of Southern Company, serves more than 193,000 customers in 23 southeast Mississippi counties.

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