
                         Roanoke Times
                 Copyright (c) 1995, Landmark Communications, Inc.

DATE: TUESDAY, October 31, 1995                   TAG: 9510310087
SECTION: BUSINESS                    PAGE: B-6   EDITION: METRO 
SOURCE: GREG EDWARDS STAFF WRITER
DATELINE:                                 LENGTH: Medium

ROANOKE GAS, APCO HELPING NEEDY PAY HEAT, ENERGY BILLS

Roanoke Gas and Appalachian Power Co. have kicked off their annual programs aimed at helping the needy pay their heating and energy bills.

Roanoke Gas said Monday it is launching its annual HeatShare program with a corporate contribution of $8,800.

During the 14 years HeatShare has operated, more than 5,300 families have received assistance and nearly $750,000 has been donated by Roanoke Gas, its employees and customers, the company said.

A family of four can receive HeatShare assistance with an income as high as $26,090. The Virginia Department of Social Services provides assistance to families whose annual income is less than $19,692.

Beginning in November, gas bills will contain a form that will let customers designate an amount to be added to their bill for HeatShare. The funds will be distributed through the Salvation Army. People also can donate directly to HeatShare through the Salvation Army at 724 Dale Ave. S.E., Roanoke 24013.

Appalachian Power's annual Neighbor-to-Neighbor program, conducted each year with the cooperation of the Department of Social Services,will match its customers' contributions up to $37,500 this year. Last year, 10,325 customers contributed almost $110,000 to the program. Including the company's contribution, more than $147,000 went toward the electric bills of more than 1,600 families.

All donations go to the needy. Administrative costs are borne by the company and state agencies.

Since the Apco program began in the winter of 1982-83, Virginia customers and company stockholders have helped pay the energy bills of almost 22,000 needy customers.

Apco customers may add the amount of their contribution to their regular electric bill payments by returning the insert indicating the amount donated. Those who want to make separate contributions may make their checks payable to the Virginia Department of Social Services/Neighbor-to-Neighbor Program and mail them to Apco.

Contributions will be accepted from Nov. 1 to Feb. 29, 1996. Donations are tax deductible.

by CNB