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"Heat The Streets" Helps Area Energy Assistance Programs

Extremely cold weather, like we had in early January, places even greater demand on energy assistance programs in the region.

The Heat the Streets Run and Walk for Warmth is an annual event that raises funds for such programs. MUD, OPPD and Black Hills Energy partner with five local agencies to provide energy assistance under the non-profit, Common Fund of the Heartland.   

MUD Director of Communications, Tracey Christensen, says you do not have to take pledges for this run/walk, and your registration fee goes directly to the aid programs.  

MUD’s own energy assistance program, The Heat Aid Fund, has been around since 1983 and every year gives about $200,000 worth of assistance to people who struggle to pay their MUD bill.

“The Heat Aid Program is very important to help those people who may fall between the cracks a little bit  -- our seniors, families in crisis, those who might be disabled.  We have very generous customers who help keep that fund going. And if people would like to donate, they can do so by putting a pledge or a donation on their bills. We also, on our website, have a form you can complete.”

Christensen says typically five or six hundred runners and walkers participate in the Heat the Streets Run and Walk for Warmth.  Registration is open at an early-bird discount until January 31st, then at regular cost until February 28th This year it will held be at Werner Park on March 3rd.

The website to register is heatthestreetsomaha.org., and the website for more information about the MUD Heat Aid Fund is mudomaha.com/blog/heat-aid-fund.