In support of the current homelessness crisis, Entegrus is proud to provide the United Way of Chatham-Kent with $200,000 from its Corporate Donation Program to go towards its’ COVID-19 Response and Recovery Fund.
“COVID-19 has had a profound impact on all of us, and we recognize that we not only provide an essential service to our communities, but we will play an essential role in its recovery,” stated Jim Hogan, president and CEO of Entegrus, in a media release.
“These funds will ensure that help will go to those who are most vulnerable in our community.”
Chatham-Kent United Way’s CEO Steve Pratt welcomed the announcement.
“Entegrus is known for assisting other utilities in times of crisis after devastating storms in both Canada and the United States,” stated Pratt in a press release.
“It’s comforting to know that when help is needed in our own backyard, Entegrus is here to answer the call. This significant contribution will help position us to weather this unprecedented storm we are facing in our own community, ensuring basic needs will be met for those who need it most.”
Entegrus and its employees have been a proud supporter of the United Way for many years by participating in several initiatives annually, particularly around the holidays, raising funds for community organizations with the highest needs, Entegrus officials say.
“We are proud of the giving nature of the Chatham-Kent Community,” Hogan added.
“Our employees have always rallied to support the causes that need our help, and we are fortunate to be able to financially support many of these efforts.”
Entegrus also announced a combined $80,000 donation to Salvation Army organizations in Chatham-Kent, St. Thomas and Strathroy this holiday season.
“The Salvation Army helps to provide food, clothing and shelter, as well as emergency funds for the most vulnerable in our community,” Hogan said.
“An unprecedented amount of people will be looking for assistance this year. We have allocated funds to support the organizations in our communities who support our vulnerable population.”
The Salvation Army relies on community donations this time of year to meet its growing demand for services, Entegrus officials say.
The current pandemic has impeded community organizations, such as the Salvation Army, who rely on in person donations with people encouraged to stay home.
“The Salvation Army has raised funds for over 125 years to meet its demand for services,” Hogan said.
“As a community focused organization, we will do what we can to help ensure a pandemic will not keep these organizations from meeting rising community needs.”
The company allocated the funds based on customer population: The Salvation Army Community and Family Services in Strathroy, will receive $11,000; the Salvation Army St. Thomas Citadel and Community Ministries will receive $23,000; and the Salvation Army Chatham-Kent Ministries will receive $46,000.
Entegrus’ customer service department is available 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday, to discuss available options if customers are experiencing financial difficulties.
For information on programs such as the COVID-19 Electricity Assistance Program, visit www.entegrus.com/CEAP.
Entegrus can be reached at 1-866-804-7324 (option 2 for Customer Service), or email:
customerservice@entegrus.com.
