A Nurtured World

High utility costs impose a significant financial burden for many low-income families, often representing their second highest monthly expense. The inability to pay utilities is second only to inability to pay rent as a reason for homelessness. A recent survey of low-income households found that during the prior five years, due to their utility bills, 57% of non-elderly owners went without medical or dental care, 25% could not make their rent or mortgage payment, and 24% went without food for at least one day. As utility costs continue to increase, the problem will worsen.The elderly and children are most at risk during summer and winter months where temperature extremes can be fatal.