Keeping the Lights on and Hope Alive
October in Minnesota brings more than crisp air and falling leaves—it marks the beginning of the Cold Weather Rule, which protects families from having their heat or electricity shut off during the long, frigid months of winter.
It also signals the start of a new Energy Assistance Program year at Community Action Partnership of Hennepin County (CAP-HC). This vital program helps thousands of children and adults stay safe and warm October 1 through May 31 each year. For many families, the Energy Assistance Program is more than a temporary lifeline—it’s a turning point.
From Crisis to Confidence
Rosa had a job that paid $15 an hour. With four children at home, daily needs and rising bills kept outpacing her income no matter how carefully she stretched her paycheck. Despite her best efforts, she fell behind on her electric bill. “I had a cutoff notice … I was feeling very upset and stressed out due to [being] unable to pay my bill. I felt very depressed and didn’t have anyone to help me during this difficult time,” Rosa shared.
Then she learned about CAP-HC’s Energy Assistance Program. She applied for help and was eligible for a utility bill assistance grant.
“Energy Assistance came through for me and [helped] pay my bill … I’m so thankful that [CAP-HC] helped me.”
With the utility bill assistance Rosa received, she was able to avoid being disconnected and keep her electricity on. But the assistance did more than pay a bill—it kept Rosa’s children safe and warm while lifting a huge mental weight from Rosa’s mind. It gave Rosa breathing room so she could finally think beyond survival.
Building Toward Financial Stability
Rosa’s journey didn’t stop once her utility bill was paid. She wanted to take charge of her finances and build toward a brighter future. Her next step was participating in one of CAP-HC’s Financial Wellness Workshops, where she learned strategies for budgeting and managing money with confidence. Today, Rosa is working full time, keeping up with her bills, and looking ahead with hope.
“I managed to get a raise and got myself on a budget. Thanks to [CAP-HC], I was able to keep my electricity on. I feel grateful and thankful for the help that was given and it was much appreciated.”
Beyond Bills and Budgets
Rosa navigated a moment of crisis. Then she pursued tools to move forward from a place of stability. Her story captures what CAP-HC’s work is all about: meeting people wherever they are—whether navigating a crisis or ready to pave their path to prosperity.
At CAP-HC, we know that it’s rarely one challenge standing in the way of economic stability. It’s usually compounding factors that stack up against people with lower incomes. That’s why we take a holistic approach to building stability and opportunity.
Our suite of more than a dozen programs—from housing and energy support to employment and financial coaching—is designed to meet immediate needs and create pathways to a better future. Our services, along with partnerships across Hennepin County, help individuals and families with low incomes build stability, rekindle hope, and create lasting opportunity.
Learn more about CAP-HC’s Energy Assistance Program and Financial Wellness Workshops.
How You Can Help
As the new Energy Assistance year begins, demand for help is already growing. Your support ensures that more families have the warmth, stability, and opportunity they need to move forward. Make a donation today in any amount to help families stay safe this winter and build toward a brighter future.