With the clock ticking ahead of the October deadline when State grants for past due utility payments will end, VGS is urging its customers who have had difficulty paying their bills during the Covid-19 emergency to apply for financial assistance available through the Vermont Public Service Department.
“VGS has been working around the clock to make sure our customers who were hardest hit by Covid-19 disruptions get financial assistance,” said VGS President and CEO Neale Lunderville. “These State grants are important to aid our families and businesses as they get back on their feet. So far, we’ve helped 493 VGS customers access support. This is a modest portion of the more than 5,000 who are eligible, so we’re redoubling our efforts to spread the word about funds available through the Public Service Department.”
The Vermont COVID-19 Arrearage Assistance Program (VCAAP II) provides grants to eligible Vermonters who may have past due balances that may result in disconnection. VCAAP II residential assistance is available for up to $10,000 and businesses can receive up to $50,000 in assistance. VGS customers can apply by visiting: https://publicservice.vermont.gov/content/help-past-due-utility-bills-vermont-department-public-service. Customers are eligible even if they received assistance under VCAAP last year.
“With the heating season just around the corner, VGS is focused on helping our customers who have struggled during the Pandemic,” said Lunderville. “We stand ready to help them access these free State grants. Please contact our team at 1-800-639-2112 or customerservice@vermontgas.com and we’ll lead you through the process.”
Before you apply for VCAAP II:
- Have a copy of the most recent bills handy because you’ll need to know the account number, service address, and the name of the account holder.
- Funds awarded from this grant may be considered taxable income for businesses.
- For more information, please visit?the Department of Taxes webpage Expanded Economic Recovery Grant FAQs (see Frequently Asked Questions section).
- Grants will be awarded on a first come, first serve basis until funding runs out, or the program ends.
About VGS
VGS is a leader in energy efficiency and innovation, offering a clean, safe, affordable choice for over 54,000 homes, businesses, and institutions in Franklin, Chittenden and Addison counties. The company plays an important role in Vermont’s clean energy future by displacing higher-emitting fuels, offering renewable natural gas service, and delivering award-winning energy efficiency programs. VGS is leading the country in the development of local renewable energy generation and has targeted a 30% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030 and becoming Net Zero by 2050. For more information about Vermont Gas visit www.vgsvt.com
Media Contact
Dylan Giambatista
(802) 391-6475
dgiambatista@vermontgas.com