What is Project Safe?
Many people in our community live with financial hardship. The elderly, disabled, unemployed, or people confronted by sickness or other financial setbacks, are often unable to pay for the energy needed to run their homes. To help them, Oak Ridge Utility District is sponsoring PROJECT SAFE (Special Assistance Fund for Energy). It is based on the concept that donations of $1, $5, $10 or more from caring people each month can build a fund large enough to help those with a genuine need.
How is the Money Used?
PROJECT SAFE is used to help customers with energy emergencies, regardless of the type of energy used – natural gas, electricity, oil, propane, wood, coal, kerosene or other.
How is it Administered?
Each request for emergency funds will be reviewed by a staff member of Aid to Distressed Families for Appalachian Counties (ADFAC) to ensure a fair distribution to people who qualify and need temporary assistance.
Will Donations Really Help?
All money given to PROJECT SAFE goes directly to the emergency program. No salaries or expenses of the sponsoring or administrative organizations are paid from the donations.
Who is Eligible?
All customers, who face immediate energy related crises, and who meet PROJECT SAFE qualifications are eligible.
PROJECT SAFE is for emergency situations only; it is not an ongoing source of supplemental assistance.
If you are in need of emergency assistance and live in Anderson or Roane County please contact ADFAC at (865) 483-6028.
How can ORUD Customers Help?
1. Make a pledge of $1, $5, $10 or more per month, which ORUD will add to your monthly gas bill.
2. Return the form with your pledge, or one-time contribution along with your utility payment.
Your contribution is tax deductible.
