LAKE HAVASU CITY – River Cities United Way and UniSource Energy Services are working together to provide $100 vouchers to 90 low-income customers in Lake Havasu City to help brighten this holiday season.
Customers are receiving the vouchers, along with gifts and food boxes, in advance of the holidays from the Havasu Community Health Foundation Food Bank. UniSource donated $10,000 in funding for the vouchers and to cover administrative costs through the River Cities United Way, which is collaborating with the food bank for the distribution.
The donation highlights the importance of building strong partnerships with companies to help strengthen local communities, said Ashley Wood, Chief Executive Officer of River Cities United Way.
“It’s making a difference for these families, especially with the additional expenses that come with the holiday season,” Wood said. “We want them to go into 2025 with a positive impact. The best way to close out the year is with a warm wish.”
With their holiday packages, voucher recipients are receiving instructions for working with the United Way to obtain a bill credit. Clients began receiving the vouchers during the week of Dec. 9 and will continue to do so until the holidays. Some clients, who have already reached out to Wood, were thankful for the early holiday present.
“As the end of the year approaches, UniSource wanted to enhance the season for families so they can enjoy time with their families and loved ones,” said Penny Lyons, UniSource Community Customer Affairs Representative. She also volunteers for the River Cities United Way, serving as its board chair.
River Cities United Way is grateful for UniSource’s ongoing support, both financially and with volunteers. UniSource volunteers donate their personal time to assist with the agency’s events, including Lumberjack Days at Hualapai Mountain Park in October.
UniSource employees also regularly contribute to the United Way through an annual employee giving campaign with paycheck deductions or one-time donations.
“What I love is the flexibility and the support that UniSource has provided to us over the years,” Wood said. “They have stepped up above and beyond and they are so incredibly flexible.”
All of UniSource’s philanthropic contributions come from corporate resources and are not recovered through customers’ rates.
