When I received my MLGW bill last month for February, I was shocked. At nearly $250, it was the highest I had ever seen it. Now let me put that figure into perspective for you. I live in a two-bedroom house that is less than 1,000 square feet in size. My husband and I both work and are pretty good about turning off the lights and heat/air when we are away from the house. Not only that, but our Central heat and air unit is less than two years old, meaning that it should still be pretty darn efficient.

So why am I revealing all of those details in this blog post? Because it is a great example of how high utility costs are getting here in Memphis.

For people who are near or below federal poverty levels and who are having trouble paying their utility bills, there are already some assistance programs available. But what about people who aren't "poor" by government standards, but are still struggling to make ends meet? Well, the city of Memphis has just established a program for you. Folks who qualify may receive $500 in the summer and $500 in the winter to go toward their MLGW bill. To qualify, you must earn an income between 151 and 175 percent of the federal poverty level, you must have received a cut-off notice from the utility company, and you must be able to prove your income and your residency. For more information or to apply for the program, call 901-575-7200.