Holiday gifting is rarely easy; doing it for some people on our lists feels downright impossible.
Nothing like a little holiday shopping to make us question how well we actually know the people we’ve had in our lives for years and years. Money is often too impersonal; clothes, an old standby, are risky because it’s tough to know a person’s size and taste; and some just don’t seem to want or need much of anything at all.
If you’re feeling overwhelmed, remember: the best gifts bring comfort and happiness to those we love. A gift certificate from Clark Public Utilities or a direct contribution to a loved one’s utility account will do just that.
“Helping someone cover their utility expenses offers a personal touch and peace of mind that retail gift cards or cash can’t match,” said Clark Public Utilities Customer Service Manager Robert Hill. “For some folks, covering the bills is a real challenge, so alleviating even a little of the burden will be greatly appreciated.”
You can purchase utility gift certificates or directly pay on another person’s account at any time of the year, but the circumstances of the last year make them particularly good holiday presents.
“We’re heading into winter, when utility bills are typically the year’s highest. That alone is tough for many, but for some folks it’ll be especially difficult due to their experiences in the last year,” Hill said. “The economic impacts of the pandemic made it hard for many customers to pay utility bills, many of whom never before carried a balance. I’m sure those folks will really appreciate the assistance with their utility expenses.”
Gift certificates can be given in whatever amount you choose. Alternatively, you can always make a payment toward another person’s utility account whenever you’d like. Just be aware that for reasons of personal privacy utility employees cannot tell you the balance on an account that you’re not authorized to access.
Our offices are currently closed to in-person business, but customer service representatives are available 24/7 to help. Simply call 360-992-3000, tell the customer service what you have in mind and they’ll take care of it.
If you have a loved one who’d appreciate you helping many people in their name, consider making a donation in their name to the utility’s charitable program, Operation Warm Heart.
Operation Warm Heart is a donation-funded program that helps limited-income families in crisis pay their electric bills. Since its inception in 1985, Operation Warm Heart has helped Clark County families in crisis pay heating bills.
The program is designed to catch those who’d otherwise slip through the cracks — the people who do not qualify for other government financial assistance programs that would help them pay heating bills, yet can barely make ends meet.
Supporting donations can be made once or as ongoing tax-deductible contributions. The amounts and duration of your donations are entirely up to you.
For the athlete in your life, you could pay their $30 registration fee for the upcoming Race for Warmth, and sign up their favorite furry running companion for just $5 more. The 10K run and 5K walk/run is scheduled for Jan. 28-30.
Every dollar of the registration fee will directly benefit Operation Warm Heart. Participants can choose to donate more if they wish. Event registration is now open at www.raceforwarmth.com.
Energy Adviser is written by Clark Public Utilities. Send questions to ecod@clarkpud.com or to Energy Adviser, c/o Clark Public Utilities, P.O. Box 8900, Vancouver, WA 98668.
