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New Utility Bill Assistance Fund Available By Dialing 211

Direct Energy partners with United Way to establish $500,000 utility assistance program

Edmonton, Alberta, Canada – Strongly committed to Alberta, Direct Energy is proud to partner with the United Way of Calgary and Area and the Alberta Capital Region to help Albertans who are experiencing financial crisis pay their utility bills.

The United Way's new Direct Energy Emergency Fund provides a helping hand for hundreds of families, and reduces the risk of them falling into debt due to utility bills in arrears or disconnection notices.

Effective tomorrow, any Albertan living in the Calgary or Edmonton area may contact 211 to speak with a case worker to determine eligibility.

"With almost one million customers, we understand the financial challenges many Albertans are facing. We want to help those who need it most," said Tanis Kozak, Vice President and General Manager, Canada, Direct Energy. "By partnering with the United Way, the new Direct Energy Emergency Fund will deliver much-needed financial relief for families struggling with basic needs, including natural gas and electricity bills."

"When unemployment rates rise in the Alberta Capital Region, more families and individuals struggle to pay for essentials such as utilities," said Anne Smith, President and CEO of United Way of the Alberta Capital Region. "We are seeing an increase in calls to 211 seeking this type of assistance, and Direct Energy's support through this fund will make an important difference for people in need."

Direct Energy's three-year funding commitment of $500,000 will be available to Albertans served by the United Way of Calgary and Area and the Alberta Capital Region.

Disconnected or pending disconnected utilities are not a specific requirement.

All requests for individual assessment and assistance should be directed to 211 or www.ab.211.ca.

For further details about the Fund, please visit www.directenergy.com/alberta/emergencyfund.

For more information contact:

Wendy Tynan
wendy.tynan@centrica.com

Direct Energy is one of North America's largest energy and energy-related services providers with nearly five million residential and commercial customers. Direct Energy provides customers with choice and support in managing their energy costs through a portfolio of innovative products and services. A subsidiary of Centrica plc (LSE: CNA), one of the world's leading integrated energy companies, Direct Energy operates in 50 U.S. states plus the District of Columbia and 10 provinces in Canada.


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