Charlotte Gears Up for Annual “Share the Warmth Day”
Charlotte, NC is all set to embrace the spirit of giving once again with Share the Warmth Day on December 12, 2024. This annual event, now in its sixth year, is aimed at highlighting the importance of helping our neighbors stay warm during the chilly winter months. Proclaimed by Mayor Vi Lyles, this special day aligns with the long-standing Share the Warmth program by Piedmont Natural Gas.
A Helping Hand for Those in Need
Since its inception in 2003, Share the Warmth has been a beacon of hope for many residents. It focuses on providing emergency funds to individuals who might be struggling with their energy bills, regardless of the source they use to heat their homes. As temperatures begin to drop, the initiative becomes even more crucial for those who may find it tough to keep their homes cozy.
“Piedmont’s Share the Warmth program has been helping our neighbors in need stay warm since 2003,” explains Brian Weisker, senior vice president and president of Piedmont Natural Gas. “We’ve designated December 12, or 12/12, as ‘Share the Warmth Day’ because it’s an easy reminder for customers that for no more than $12 a year, they can significantly impact the lives of others.”
How to Contribute
Residents who want to make a difference can easily contribute through the Round Up program. This innovative scheme allows customers to round up their natural gas bills to the nearest dollar, with the remaining change going straight to Share the Warmth. “It’s a simple way to aid those in our community who may be struggling to make ends meet,” adds Weisker.
There are multiple easy options available for those wishing to enroll or donate:
- Visit piedmontng.com/ShareTheWarmth to enroll online
- Text SHARE to 21209 (message and data rates may apply)
- Fill out the enrollment form on the back of their bill
- Call Piedmont at 800.752.7504
And even if you’re not a Piedmont customer, you can still pitch in! Non-customers can visit piedmontng.com/ShareTheWarmth to learn how to make individual contributions to this wonderful program.
Your Donations Make a Difference
What’s truly heartwarming is that all funds collected through Share the Warmth remain local. Every dollar contributed goes directly to neighbors in the community through nonprofit partners. Here in Charlotte, those funds help support groups like Crisis Assistance Ministry, ensuring that assistance is handed out with care and precision to those who need it most.
The fun doesn’t end there! Mayor Lyles emphasizes, “Charlotte-area residents should never have to worry about how they’ll stay warm during the winter months. My ‘Share the Warmth Day’ proclamation aims to shed light on this important issue, reminding us all to take action and support our community.”
Year-Round Support
While Share the Warmth Day brings a fun and community-focused flair to the initiative, assistance isn’t just available during the winter months. Support from Share the Warmth is accessible throughout the year for those struggling to pay their energy bills, whether they rely on propane, electricity, or natural gas.
For more heartwarming stories about how Share the Warmth and its nonprofit partners have changed lives, residents can check out Duke Energy’s illumination website.
As the city bustles with holiday cheer and preparations, let’s keep in mind that sharing a little warmth can go a long way in making a difference. Mark your calendars for December 12, and let’s come together to help our neighbors shine bright this winter!
