OPPD, MUD Raise Money for Utility Assistance Funds
The coronavirus pandemic has impacted people across the greater Omaha community, resulting in a 38% increase in the number of Omaha Public Power District and Metropolitan Utilities District customers requesting assistance with their utility bills.
The public utilities are coming together, as they do every year, to raise money for energy assistance programs through the 14th annual Heat the Streets Run & Walk for Warmth, which will be held virtually this year on March 6. While utility assistance is a year-round need, this event is held during the cold winter months to bring attention to those who struggle to keep the lights on and heat their homes.
“Keeping homes warm and safe has taken on an even higher priority within the last year,” said Tanya Cook of M.U.D.’s Board of Directors. “I’m proud to lend my support to this event.”
Cook is co-chairing this year’s event, alongside Janece Mollhoff of the OPPD Board of Directors, and her husband Wayne Mollhoff.
“We are seeing a record number of first-time applicants. These are customers who have never needed to reach out for help before,” Mollhoff said. “It’s clear the pandemic has taken its toll. We need to support our communities through the recovery.”
OPPD and M.U.D. encourage participants to complete the 5K run or one-mile walk on March 6 on their own – in neighborhoods, local trails, or even on a treadmill. Custom neck gaiters will be mailed to all registrants.
Participants in the 5K may submit their results online. Awards will be mailed to the first through third-place male and female runners in the following age divisions: under 13, 13-19, 20-29, 30-39, 40-49, 50-59 and 60-plus.
The price for the 5K is $35. The walk is $25. Children 12 and under receive free registration for the 1-mile walk with a paid adult.
Money raised will be split between M.U.D.’s Home Fund and OPPD’s Energy Assistance Program to provide local utility assistance to those in need.
Register for 5k or walk – or give a donation to support the funds – at heatthestreetsomaha.com.
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