Contributions to Pennsylvania Power & Light Co.'s Operation HELP program have helped more than 27,000 customers in 29 counties throughout Central Eastern Pennsylvania pay their home energy bills over the past decade.

Program funds, which come from donations from PP&L, its customers and employees, have topped the $5.7 million mark.

Started by PP&L in 1983, Operation HELP is a program to help pay the energy bills of low-income families. Program funds can be used to pay any type of home energy bill -- not just electricity.

"Although total program contributions have more than tripled in the past 12 years, the needs continue to exceed funds available," explained Timothy R. Dahl, a customer service specialist for PP&L and coordinator of the utility's Operation HELP program. "We continually explore ways to increase funding in order to help as many people as possible."

Dahl said Operation HELP targets those most in need because of hardships such as illness, disabilities, high medical expenses, family problems or prolonged unemployment. Records show that 40 percent of Operation HELP recipients had children under 5 years of age, 11 percent included the elderly and 20 percent were disabled.

To qualify for HELP funds, income cannot exceed 175 percent of federal poverty level, Dahl said. About 70 percent who have been assisted had incomes below 100 percent of poverty level, which is $15,150 for a family of four. All HELP applicants are interviewed in person to determine their need and their eligibility for assistance.

Operation HELP funds are administered by 16 community-based organizations throughout PP&L's service area. Payments are made directly to the energy vendor for any type of heating source.

"Operation HELP makes a difference in the lives of so many people in need," Dahl said. "For many, it's the only means of warmth during cold, hard winters."

Dahl said programs like Operation HELP are even more important in light of significant budget cuts in energy assistance at the federal level. He noted that during the past 10 years, Pennsylvania's federal funding for energy assistance has been cut by nearly 60 percent.

Customers can support Operation HELP by completing the enrollment form enclosed with their December bill, including a lump-sum check in their return bill envelope, or by calling 1-800-DIAL-PPL (1-800-342-5775).