Enbridge awards Outreach $15,000 check for utility shut-off prevention

Lara Hamsher of Enbridge presents a check for $15,000 to Stockbridge Community Outreach. L-R: Fred Cattel, Debbie Nogle, Molly Howlett, Jo Mayer, Lara Hamsher (Enbridge), Outreach Director Karen Smith, Police Chief Johnnie Torres, Rob Kitchen (Enbridge) and Ryan Duffy (Enbridge).

by Patrice Johnson

Noon, Dec. 3 brought tidings of cheer to Stockbridge Community Outreach as representatives of Enbridge arrived at Outreach’s new digs at the new Stockbridge Activity Center (old middle school) to award a check for $15,000 to help local residents stay warm and keep the lights on.

Outreach’s application for an Enbridge Community Investment Grant requested assistance with local “utility shut-off prevention.” The application stated that Outreach was looking for a stable partner “who understands that a warm home and the ability to cook food and heat water is vital to the well-being of every person.” Grant monies will be used to help local families “in desperate situations,” the application stated.

Outreach Director Karen Smith said, “We are calling it ‘The Enbridge Utility Fund'” She expects the monies will help more than 30 local families in need.

Lara Hamsher, Enbridge Community Engagement Advisor, and Ryan Duffy of Enbridge regional communications and media relations were on hand to present the check.

“Stockbridge Community Outreach is doing tireless work this holiday season and all year long to identify and serve community members in need,” Hamsher said. “We’ve been partnering with Outreach over the past few years. We value our relationship and the opportunity to contribute to their mission.”

Stockbridge Community Outreach office is located in the Stockbridge Activity Center, PO Box 682, Stockbridge.

Chief Johnnie Torres, Jo Mayer, Fred Cattell, Debbie Nogle, Outreach Director Karen Smith, Molly Howlett, and Connie Spadafore.

Outreach, newly relocated in the Old Middle School (via the back door), is stocked with food and supplies for those in need.