During the holiday months, Mississippi Power is again offering its customers an opportunity to sign up for Project Share, a nationally recognized program used to help elderly, handicapped, medically disabled or other customers in need who have difficulty paying their electricity bills.

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

More than 3,800 customers are currently enrolled in Project Share. Since the program began in April 2002, customers have contributed more than $165,000.

The Red Cross of Mississippi administers Project Share and oversees distribution of the money collected. “Red Cross reaches each of the communities we serve and has been a partner with us for 20 years,” said Brautigam. “They know the needs in the community and are experienced in providing similar assistance programs. Since 1984, they have administered an annual contribution from Mississippi Power to help with the same kinds of needs.”

“The response to Project Share so far has exceeded all of our expectations,” said Oscar Barnes, executive director of the American Red Cross Mississippi Gulf Coast Chapter. “The program has helped many families by providing much needed assistance. It has proven the adage, ‘When many give a little, it can make a big difference.’”

Customers who wish to participate in Project Share may check an amount of $1, $2 or $5 per month in the upper right hand corner of their Mississippi Power bills. Those who pay their bills automatically by bank transfer may participate by calling the company’s customer service center at 1-800-532-1502.

Once a customer begins giving to Project Share, their designated amount will be 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 193,000 customers in 23 southeastern Mississippi counties.

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