Ameren Missouri to provide $1 million in energy assistance

ST. LOUIS, Mo. (KMIZ)

Ameren Missouri announced Thursday that it will provide $1 million in energy assistance to customers across the state.

In a news release, the company said it partnered with United Way of Greater St. Louis to offer $500,000 in income relief for its electric and gas customers that have had their hours reduced or lost their jobs during the coronavirus outbreak.

The company also said it is increasing its commitment to Heatupmissouri.org and Heatupstlouis.org to offer $500,000 to support customers already using its energy assistance programs.

"The new Ameren Missouri Coronavirus Income Relief Program was developed to offer assistance to workers from a variety of businesses such as restaurants, daycare facilities, retail stores and other organizations who normally do not qualify for energy assistance," the company said in its statement.

Under the program, customers with an active account can apply for $250 toward payment on their accounts. To apply, customers need to visit United Way's website.

In addition, Ameren Missouri also announced it has suspended all disconnections for non-payment and is forgiving any late payment fees for both residential and business customers who are struggling to make payments on time due to the coronavirus situation until further notice.