COLUMBUS — In recognition of National Energy Assistance Day Friday, Columbia Gas of Ohio reminds customers there are programs available if they need financial assistance with energy bills or paying past-due balances.

“Ohio is experiencing a cold winter, and that unfortunately means more customers may face difficulties heating their homes and paying their natural gas bill,” said Columbia Gas of Ohio President and Chief Operating Officer Robert Heidorn. “We are here to support you. Columbia can connect you to funds and payment assistance programs to help with your bill so you can keep your family safe and warm.”

Expanded Payment Plans

Columbia Gas is offering an expanded number of flexible payment plans to help spread the balance due on natural gas bills across multiple months. It is easy to enroll in six-, nine- or 12-month Basic Extended Payment Plans, or the Percentage of Income Payment Plan Plus, by calling 800-344-4077 or visiting columbiagasohio.com/paymentplans.

HeatShare

HeatShare, a bill assistance program administered by The Salvation Army, is available to income-eligible customers. HeatShare has expanded, and customers who were not eligible in previous years may now be eligible.

Find a Salvation Army near you: easternusa.salvationarmy.org/southwest-ohio/central-ohio.

Columbia Gas also offers WarmChoice, an energy efficiency program to help lower energy usage. For more information and tips on how to lower your energy usage, visit columbiagasohio.com/energy-efficiency.

For more information on billing options and payment assistance, visit columbiagasohio.com/assistance or call 800-344-4077.