Customers who meet certain income guidelines can apply to receive a 25 percent discount on the fuel portion of their July, August and September bills under a new Cleco program.

“We know many of our customers struggle to pay bills when the weather is hot and electric usage is high,” said Anthony Bunting, vice president of customer service and energy delivery. “Bills for July, August and September are typically some of the highest. By offering a discount during these months, we hope to provide a little relief to our low-income customers.”

The CARE (Cleco Alternative Rate for Electricity) program is available to all customers who meet the income guidelines used for LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program). Community action agencies are taking CARE program applications during the months of February, March and April.

Customers must apply at one of the agencies during those months to qualify for the CARE discount this summer.

Customers will be required to re-qualify each year for the program.

“We estimate 30 percent of our customers could qualify for this program,” said Bunting. “We urge those customers to apply.”

Another way Cleco assists low-income seniors and disabled customers is through the Power of Sharing Fund.

The company, its employees and customers contribute to the fund monthly. Power of Sharing funds are distributed through local Councils on Aging and are available to seniors and disabled persons of legal age. The funds are used to help pay utility bills.

Cleco also will hold its 10th annual fan drive beginning in April. Each year, Cleco employees statewide hold fan drives. They collect fans and raise funds to purchase fans for the elderly across Cleco’s service territory.

Last year, the drive provided more than 1,500 fans for distribution by local Councils on Aging and other agencies.

“We are always looking for ways to help our customers,” said Bunting. “This new CARE program is one of many efforts.”

For more information on CARE or to sign up, go to the St. Tammany Parish Community Action Agency, 2004 First St., Slidell, or call 646-2090 and 893-3923 for the Covington office.