Helping to close the GAP on winter bills: NW Natural's Gas Assistance Program has paid energy bills for people in need for 42 years
Media contact: 503-739-9902; media@nwnatural.com
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
December 5, 2024
PORTLAND, Ore. — Since 1982, NW Natural’s Gas Assistance Program (GAP) has raised more than $6.7 million, with NW Natural customers, employees and shareholders all donating to assist customers who face financial challenges. A partner network of community action groups throughout Oregon and Southwest Washington distributes the funds directly to those who need them, including low-income families and seniors.
Over the years, GAP has helped pay heating bills for more than 60,000 customers. NW Natural’s customers and shareholders contributed $180,000 to the GAP program in the 2023-2024 giving year. NW Natural shareholders will match the first $60,000 in contributions to this year’s program, as they have done every year since 2017. NW Natural covers all of GAP’s administrative costs so 100% of the funds can be donated to recipients. This is just one of several NW Natural community assistance programs. The Portland-based utility also provides monthly bill discounts for customers with limited incomes, free weatherization, and natural gas heating upgrades via communication action agencies. Eligible customers in Oregon can now save up to 85% every month via bill discounts, and eligible customers in Washington can get up to 80% off. Visit nwnatural.com/billdiscount for more information. Tax deductible donations in support of the GAP program can be made via United Way at https://donate.unitedway-pdx.org/p/gasassistance or mailing a check to: Gas Assistance Program, PO Box 35143 #4406, Seattle, WA 98124-5143. Donation funds are distributed to the following community action networks, which screen all low-income recipients. About NW Natural
NW Natural is a local distribution company that currently provides natural gas service to approximately 2 million people in more than 140 communities through more than 800,000 meters in Oregon and Southwest Washington with one of the most modern pipeline systems in the nation. NW Natural consistently leads the industry with high J.D. Power & Associates customer satisfaction scores. NW Natural owns and operates 21 Bcf of underground gas storage capacity in Oregon. NW Natural, a part of Northwest Natural Holding Company, (NYSE: NWN) (NW Natural Holdings), is headquartered in Portland, Oregon, and has been doing business for more than 160 years. NW Holdings owns NW Natural, NW Natural Renewables Holdings (NW Natural Renewables), NW Natural Water Company (NW Natural Water), and other business interests. We have a longstanding commitment to safety, environmental stewardship, and taking care of our employees and communities. Learn more in our latest ESG Report.