One-Day Energy Assistance Forum In Detroit

DETROIT (WWJ) - A one-day information session is underway in Detroit, where DTE Energy and Community Energy Solutions are partnering in an Energy Assistance Forum. WWJ's Pat Sweeting stopped by to tell us what kind of help is available.

Community Energy Solutions spokesperson Kimberly Bachelor Davis said there is a very serious need for these kinds of forums because a lot of people are struggling.

"They're using alternative means, either by illegal hookups or gas heaters, which lead of course to fires, because they don't actually understand that they can call DTE or call Community Energy Solutions to get the help that they need. We bring service agencies here, such as DHS, Wayne County, THAW and many other organizations," she said.

DTE Spokesperson Alejandro Bodipo Memba said about 170 of these community forums were held in 2011, as the need for energy assistance continues to grow. He said DTE has provided millions of dollars in energy assistance to thousands of its customers.

"Each circumstance is different. It really depends on the individual account and the circumstances on that account, so it's hard to say specifically what we can do. However, once folks find themselves in crisis, we absolutely urge them to give us a call," he said.

The forum's afternoon session will run Tuesday Feb. 21 from 3 until 5 p.m. at St. Paul A.M.E. Zion Church, 11359 Dexter Ave. in Detroit. For more information, call 866-554-2653.