JACKSON, Mich., Nov. 8, 2017 – As freezing temperatures start to settle in across Michigan, Consumers Energy is reminding Michigan families, seniors and those in need that now is the time to reach out for help with winter heating costs.“Help is available today. We encourage anyone facing hardship to take action immediately and not fall behind on their bills,” said Brian Rich, Consumers Energy’s senior vice president for customer experience. “Our goal is to help people stay safe and warm this winter.”

Consumers Energy is working to connect eligible customers with nonprofit organizations in communities across Michigan that will provide over $45 million in state dollars to help with heating costs.

Consumers Energy encourages anyone who is looking for available assistance in their community to start by calling 2-1-1, a free service that can refer people to local assistance programs, or by visiting www.ConsumersEnergy.com/assistance.

“Thanks to warmer than usual weather this fall, early demand for help with utility bills is lower than the same time last year – so if you think you might have trouble staying warm this winter, now is the time to act,” said Tom Page, executive director of Michigan’s 2-1-1 system. “Call 2-1-1, visit www.mi211.org or contact your energy provider to find help before the really cold weather hits.”

In November, Consumers Energy customers are also receiving information regarding assistance programs along with their bills. The information describes company payment plan options, as well as outside help such as the nonprofit agencies, the Department of Health and Human Services State Emergency Relief program, the Michigan Home Heating Credit and more.

Consumers Energy, Michigan’s largest utility, is the principal subsidiary of CMS Energy (NYSE: CMS), providing natural gas and electricity to 6.7 million of the state’s 10 million residents in all 68 Lower Peninsula counties.

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For more information about Consumers Energy, go to www.ConsumersEnergy.com.