Family and Child

The Heat and Warmth Fund

WHO:   The Heat and Warmth Fund (THAW) is an organization of representatives from Michigan businesses, community human services organizations, government agencies, and concerned private citizens working in partnership with area utility companies and other energy providers. 

WHAT:   THAW Fund is a 501(c)3 non-profit organization that provides emergency energy assistance to low-income families, individuals and senior citizens throughout Michigan who are in danger of losing essential heat or electricity.

WHEN:   THAW Fund’s first assistance was distributed in the winter of 1986.  Funds are ordinarily disbursed between November and June each year, depending on available funding.

If you need energy assistance call 1-800-866-THAW (8429).
To reach the general administration offices:
The Heat and Warmth Fund
1212 Griswold Street, 10th Floor
Detroit, MI 48226
PH: 313-226-9465 FAX: 313-226-9253
info@thawfund.org

WHERE:  Applications are taken at more than 100 community agencies serving as THAW screening sites in 70 counties across upper and lower Michigan.  THAW’s administrative office is located at 1212 Griswold in Detroit.

HOW TO APPLY: Applicants may be referred by utility companies, friends, or other agencies.  By calling 1-800-866-THAW, customers are referred to a THAW community agency site in their area.  An agency caseworker interviews the applicant, verifies eligibility and determines the amount to be paid, then sends the information via THAW's web-based SafetyNet to prevent shut-off or restore service.  THAW then approves the electronic voucher and makes the payments directly to the utility or fuel provider.