Assistance Programs from Ameren: A New Year Blessing for Customers in Need
As 2026 kicks off, Ameren is eager to assist residential customers in Missouri and Illinois with a variety of resources aimed at alleviating energy bill burdens. The company underscores the significance of early applications for assistance, citing that timely action can prevent minor energy challenges from escalating into serious financial strains. Joe Solari, Ameren's vice president of customer experience, emphasizes, "Don't wait to ask for help," as he shares the numerous avenues available for support.
Ameren collaborates with esteemed partners such as the United Way of Greater St. Louis and the Energy Assistance Foundation to deliver aid to families. The standout programs include the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), the Dollar More initiative in Missouri, and Warm Neighbors Cool Friends in Illinois. These programs provide substantial financial backing to qualifying households, reflecting Ameren's commitment to community support.
In Missouri, the Dollar More program stands out as a lifeline for families in need. This program, wholly funded through voluntary donations, allows eligible households to receive financial assistance that can reach up to $600 per year. This year, in response to rising demand, Ameren has supplemented the Dollar More fund with an additional $2 million to aid more local customers. With eligibility now expanded to those with incomes as high as 300% of the federal poverty level (FPL), many families are encouraged to explore this option.
"Dollar More remains one of the most meaningful examples of neighbors helping neighbors," asserts Michelle D. Tucker, president and CEO of United Way of Greater St. Louis. She further highlights the essential nature of this partnership, stating, "We see the impact every day, and we're proud to partner with Ameren to ensure that anyone facing a difficult moment can access the help they need, exactly when they need it."
On the Illinois side, Ameren engages with the Energy Assistance Foundation to run the Warm Neighbors Cool Friends program, which similarly offers financial aid to struggling households. With additional contributions totaling $2 million from Ameren in December, this program supplies eligible families with up to $500 in bill payment assistance. Qualification criteria include income levels between 200% to 300% of the FPL or at 80% of the county's Area Median Income (AMI).
Susan Sams, executive director of the Energy Assistance Foundation, emphasizes the importance of the Warm Neighbors initiative, noting that it serves hardworking families who may not have access to federal assistance yet still face considerable challenges to maintain a safe and comfortable home.
The broader impact of Ameren's community endeavors is evident, as they partnered with countless Community Action Agencies during 2025, facilitating over $140 million in energy assistance. This figure encompasses a significant grant of $250,000 awarded to Heat Up St. Louis, an organization dedicated to helping vulnerable populations, including seniors and families with low incomes, across Missouri and Illinois. Ben Turec, board president of Heat Up St. Louis, commended Ameren's ongoing support: "Our longstanding collaboration with Ameren strengthens our ability to serve the region's most vulnerable neighbors. If you are experiencing difficulty with your energy bill, please reach out for assistance."
As Ameren opens its doors to applications for assistance, it calls upon customers to act early and utilize the available resources that can help ease their financial burdens. Whether you are seeking assistance or are in a position to give back, Ameren’s multiple programs stand ready to support and strengthen local communities. For detailed information about these initiatives and how to apply, individuals are encouraged to visit Ameren.com/Assistance.
Through this commitment to service, Ameren continues to lead as a pivotal support system for two million electric and over 900,000 natural gas customers in a vast service area spanning 64,000 square miles across Missouri and Illinois. With initiatives like Dollar More and Warm Neighbors Cool Friends, they remain dedicated to powering lives and communities effectively and compassionately.
Ameren collaborates with esteemed partners such as the United Way of Greater St. Louis and the Energy Assistance Foundation to deliver aid to families. The standout programs include the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), the Dollar More initiative in Missouri, and Warm Neighbors Cool Friends in Illinois. These programs provide substantial financial backing to qualifying households, reflecting Ameren's commitment to community support.
In Missouri, the Dollar More program stands out as a lifeline for families in need. This program, wholly funded through voluntary donations, allows eligible households to receive financial assistance that can reach up to $600 per year. This year, in response to rising demand, Ameren has supplemented the Dollar More fund with an additional $2 million to aid more local customers. With eligibility now expanded to those with incomes as high as 300% of the federal poverty level (FPL), many families are encouraged to explore this option.
"Dollar More remains one of the most meaningful examples of neighbors helping neighbors," asserts Michelle D. Tucker, president and CEO of United Way of Greater St. Louis. She further highlights the essential nature of this partnership, stating, "We see the impact every day, and we're proud to partner with Ameren to ensure that anyone facing a difficult moment can access the help they need, exactly when they need it."
On the Illinois side, Ameren engages with the Energy Assistance Foundation to run the Warm Neighbors Cool Friends program, which similarly offers financial aid to struggling households. With additional contributions totaling $2 million from Ameren in December, this program supplies eligible families with up to $500 in bill payment assistance. Qualification criteria include income levels between 200% to 300% of the FPL or at 80% of the county's Area Median Income (AMI).
Susan Sams, executive director of the Energy Assistance Foundation, emphasizes the importance of the Warm Neighbors initiative, noting that it serves hardworking families who may not have access to federal assistance yet still face considerable challenges to maintain a safe and comfortable home.
The broader impact of Ameren's community endeavors is evident, as they partnered with countless Community Action Agencies during 2025, facilitating over $140 million in energy assistance. This figure encompasses a significant grant of $250,000 awarded to Heat Up St. Louis, an organization dedicated to helping vulnerable populations, including seniors and families with low incomes, across Missouri and Illinois. Ben Turec, board president of Heat Up St. Louis, commended Ameren's ongoing support: "Our longstanding collaboration with Ameren strengthens our ability to serve the region's most vulnerable neighbors. If you are experiencing difficulty with your energy bill, please reach out for assistance."
As Ameren opens its doors to applications for assistance, it calls upon customers to act early and utilize the available resources that can help ease their financial burdens. Whether you are seeking assistance or are in a position to give back, Ameren’s multiple programs stand ready to support and strengthen local communities. For detailed information about these initiatives and how to apply, individuals are encouraged to visit Ameren.com/Assistance.
Through this commitment to service, Ameren continues to lead as a pivotal support system for two million electric and over 900,000 natural gas customers in a vast service area spanning 64,000 square miles across Missouri and Illinois. With initiatives like Dollar More and Warm Neighbors Cool Friends, they remain dedicated to powering lives and communities effectively and compassionately.
Topics General Business）
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