Mississippi Power is offering its customers another opportunity to sign up for Project Share, a nationally recognized utility assistance program. Customer contributions to Project Share go to help the elderly, handicapped, medically disabled and other customers in need who have difficulty paying their electricity bills.

“We understand that emergency situations can arise that make it hard for customers to pay their bills,” said Mike Garrett, Mississippi Power’s President and CEO. “Project Share has already made an impact by providing much needed assistance, and as we enter the season for colder weather, we wanted to give customers another chance to participate.”

The Red Cross of Mississippi administers the program throughout Mississippi Power’s 23-county service territory. “The Red Cross reaches each of the communities we serve and has been a partner with us in helping those in need for eighteen years,” said Garrett. The Red Cross has administered annual contributions from the company to help customers with emergency needs since 1984.

Starting this month, Mississippi Power’s customers will again receive information within their bill insert describing Project Share and explaining how to voluntarily contribute $1, $2 or $5 per month to the fund. During the initial sign-up period this summer, more than 1,500 customers responded, pledging a total of just over $3,000 per month.

"We appreciate the initial response from customers to the program,” stated Garrett. “We’re seeing how numerous small actions can combine to have a major effect. When many give a little it can make a big difference.”

Customers who decide to participate in Project Share may check an amount in the upper right hand corner of their bills. Customers who pay their bills automatically by bank transfer will find a special insert accompanying their monthly statement that will allow them to participate in the program.

Once a customer has joined Project Share, their designated contribution will be added and noted separately on their Mississippi Power bill every month. The contribution may be tax deductible depending on an individual’s tax situation. Customers may change or cancel their contributions at any time by contacting the company.

Mississippi Power, a subsidiary of Southern Company, serves more than 192,000 customers in 23 southeastern Mississippi counties.