Two and a half years into the pandemic, communities across the country are still feeling the impacts. And with inflation at a four-decade high, many Americans are struggling to make ends meet, especially when it comes to taking care of regular household expenses — like groceries, utility bills and more.
At Lake Apopka Natural Gas District (LANGD), we want our customers in Apopka, Clermont, Winter Garden and beyond to know they should never have to face these struggles alone. That’s why, in partnership with Heart of Florida United Way (HFUW), we launched LANGD’S Helping Hand in summer 2021, our first-ever customer assistance program for residential customers struggling to pay their gas bills.
LANGD’s board of directors unanimously voted to kickstart the program with a $5,000 investment last summer and, since then, many community members, vendors and even fellow District customers have pitched in to lend a helping hand to those who need it.
In just one year, LANGD has supported 18 residential customers in need and distributed nearly $4,300.00. As a result of the program’s success, and to keep it sustainable for years to come, the LANGD board generously approved another $5,000 investment during its May meeting.
LANGD’s Helping Hand is a true testament to the culture at LANGD. Whether it’s volunteering time to sponsor a table at community events, or donating money or non-perishable goods to local fundraisers, our employees never shy away from the opportunity to help their neighbors in need.
LANGD is committed to our customers through both the good and the bad times. If you, or someone you know, is a LANGD residential customer with a past due account and meet the criteria below, you may qualify for financial assistance with your gas utility bill.
LANGD’S Helping Hand Program Criteria
- Must be a Lake Apopka Natural Gas District residential customer
- Must be a customer of record or authorized on the account
- Not involved in criminal activity related to tampering
- Assistance is limited to twice per year or up to $350 per household in a 12-month period. Customers must provide:
- Name and contact information
- Lake Apopka Natural Gas District account number
- Copy of most recent bill
For more information on how to apply for LANGD’s Helping Hand, contact LANGD’s Customer Service Department at (407) 656-2734. If you are interested in donating to the fund, please contact Deborah Johnson at (407) 656-0200 or donate online at https://bit.ly/3HorN7H.
Interested in learning more about natural gas? For more information on natural gas service for your home, business or vehicle, please contact The District marketing team at (407) 656-2734 x307, marketing@langd.org, or visit www.langd.org. Please be sure to like, follow and re-share LANGD’s content on Facebook at @LANGDFL.
