Missoula Electric Cooperative continues support for Energy Share of Montana
For more than 40 years, Energy Share of Montana has provided critical assistance to families and individuals facing unexpected energy emergencies across the state. Founded on the belief that neighbors should help neighbors during difficult times, the nonprofit organization has become an important lifeline for Montanans struggling to keep their homes warm and their lights on during periods of financial hardship.
What makes Energy Share unique is that it is not simply a grant program. In many communities, the assistance is structured as a revolving loan fund designed to provide help during a time of need while encouraging longterm self-reliance. Families facing emergencies such as illness, job loss, medical expenses, furnace failures or other unexpected setbacks can receive assistance. Recipients are encouraged to repay the assistance when they are financially able, allowing those dollars to help additional Montana families in the future.
According to Energy Share guidelines, the program is intended for emergencies beyond a household’s control and is not considered an “extra benefit.” Local committees review applications individually, taking into account the family’s circumstances and efforts to pay their bills. In some areas, repayment of prior assistance can restore eligibility for future help, reinforcing the organization’s focus on accountability and community sustainability.
Each year, Energy Share assists between 2,500 and 3,000 Montana households with emergency utility payments, propane assistance, furnace repairs, appliance replacement and weatherization support. The organization works closely with local Human Resource Development Councils (HRDCs) throughout Montana to ensure aid reaches residents quickly and efficiently. Many recipients are working families, seniors, veterans or individuals experiencing temporary crises who may not qualify for other public-assistance programs.
Energy Share is funded through a combination of private donations, utility company support, electric cooperatives, Universal System Benefits funding and contributions from community members across the state. The program’s success depends heavily on partnerships with organizations that believe in supporting local communities during difficult times.
Among those longtime supporters is Missoula Electric Cooperative, which has proudly supported Energy Share of Montana for decades. Missoula Electric recognizes the importance of helping local families remain safe and warm during periods of hardship, and has consistently partnered with Energy Share to strengthen the revolving assistance fund that serves western Montana residents.
This year, Missoula Electric Cooperative once again demonstrated that commitment with a generous $15,000 donation in support of Energy Share’s mission. That contribution will help ensure that families experiencing temporary hardship can receive immediate assistance when they need it most — and, through voluntary repayment, help make certain those funds remain available to assist neighbors in the future.
