The Shadow
Dear Editor,
Severe winter storms and frigid temperatures in recent weeks are stark reminders of how vital it is for people in Virginia to have access to reliable utility service to stay safe and warm, especially on the coldest days of the year.
At Columbia Gas, our employees work hard year-round to maintain the safety and reliability of our gas distribution system, ensuring our customers have natural gas service when they need it most.
The reality though is that there are vulnerable consumers who may be at risk of being without heat for various reasons. However, utility providers like Columbia Gas can connect customers with tools and programs to help them manage their bills and improve the energy efficiency of their homes.
For example, the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), a federally funded program administered through Virginia’s Department of Social Services, helps income-eligible households in Virginia with one-time grants to pay winter heating bills, and provides equipment-related assistance and help with security deposits. The maximum benefit for a utility bill payment is $410, and the deadline to apply is March 16, 2026. Visit www.commonhelp.virginia.gov/access/ for more information.
Another program available to our customers is HeatShare, a special heating assistance program funded by our contributions and donations from our caring customers, HeatShare provides grants of up to $500 to income-eligible residential customers living without heat or in danger of being without heat. Learn more by visiting dollarenergy.org/need-help/Virginia/.
For those who may be falling behind on your energy bills, please contact us at 1-800-543-8911 or at www.columbiagasva.com. We’ll work with you to explore the wide array of options available to help you stay connected and your natural gas services online. We are here to help.
Jennifer Montague is the president and chief operating officer of Columbia Gas of Virginia.
Stephanie Benson, MPIO
Communications Manager
Columbia Gas of Virginia
