Austin Utilities recently presented the Salvation Army with a check for over $1,300.

The check represents donations Austin Utilities has received from its customers over the last year for the local HeatShare program. HeatShare is a Salvation Army program that provides emergency utility assistance for people with no place left to turn.

The program is funded by Salvation Army donors and customers of local utility companies. Funds are typically used to pay for natural gas, oil, propane and electricity.

“This program is very important to us’” Salvation Army case worker Lori Espe said in a press release. “Because it gives us a chance to help families in real emergency situations that may not qualify for other programs.”

HeatShare is only available to households who are facing utility disconnection and have had a recent emergency that has caused their bill to get behind. They must be able to verify the emergency.

“This program is only available for people who have applied for energy assistance and emergency assistance from the county and have been denied,” Espe said in the release.

In 2015, money donated to the HeatShare program allow the Austin Salvation Army to assist eight households in need for a total of $2,400.

Utility customers can make one-time donations when making their utility payment, or set up monthly donations.

“We are happy to provide an avenue for customers who choose to participate in the HeatShare program,” Austin Utilities Customer Service Supervisor Melissa Swenson at said in the release. “We are in a position that allows us to see the need for this program first hand.”

Customers interested in setting up or making donations via their utility bill can contact Austin Utilities at 507-433-8886. Donations that are received in Mower County stay in the county to assist those in need. All donations are greatly appreciated.