The difference a dollar can make: Helping our neighbors stay warm through tough seasons

Staff members at a DollarHelp partner agency share how the program is bringing relief to people in their community. 

(From left: Samantha Waldie and DeAnte' Hurd)

When a disabled veteran experienced a financial setback after caring for his closest pal, he turned to Reconciliation Services in Kansas City. The nonprofit relies on DollarHelp funding to support Spire customers who are struggling to pay their winter heating bills.  

Samantha Waldie, a staff member at Reconciliation Services, remembers assisting the veteran when he walked through their doors.

“About a couple months before he came in, he had been living with just his dog, who was his best friend,” Samantha said. “Unfortunately, his dog got sick and passed away.”

“In trying to care for his pet, he found himself behind on bills, unable to make up the difference on his fixed income. This circumstance was causing him a lot of stress, and being able to provide him with utility assistance meant that he would have heating through the winter months.”

His case reflects what many households face by the time they reach out for help – hardships tied to caregiving, job loss or another sudden life change that makes it difficult to stay afloat. In moments where other assistance options fall short, DollarHelp often steps in to offer support.

“It’s one of the few resources we have to assist families with utility bills,” Samantha said.  

“DollarHelp allows us to help many different families with one of the most basic things people need for survival. It allows them to move past surviving into self-sustaining and thriving.”

- Samantha Waldie

Her colleague, DeAnte’ Hurd, said the current demand for utility assistance is at an all-time high.  

“Families are typically facing several months of delinquency or disconnection,” she said. “Due to the current housing and food crisis, they’re often faced with a tough dilemma of which need is more important to pay this month.”  

DeAnte’ recalls helping a senior who receives social security benefits and participates in the Foster Grandparent program. Her bill had fallen a few months behind because of increased living expenses, including the rise in property taxes on her home.  

“Funding through DollarHelp covered her entire bill,” DeAnte’ said. “She was relieved with tears stating that she could not afford to have her gas service disconnected with the winter months around the corner.”

“Receiving this support helps people beyond the utility bill itself by giving them that sense of hope and resilience. It helps them see the system is able to show up for them during difficult times, and they are not alone.”  

- DeAnte' Hurd

Through their work, Samantha and DeAnte’ get to see what’s possible when neighbors come together.

“Donating to DollarHelp is an easy way to make a strong, immediate impact on your community, especially around the winter months,” Samantha said.  

DeAnte’ shared that same sentiment, saying, “Giving to DollarHelp allows you to help your neighbor and see the ultimate difference it’s making ... one dollar at a time.”