Energy Share of Montana helps with energy assistance

As Montana’s winter approaches and temperatures begin to plummet, Energy Share of Montana continues its mission to ensure no household faces the life-threatening reality of a no-heat emergency. Since 1983, the nonprofit organization has provided critical energy assistance to more than 77,000 Montanans, helping families keep their homes warm, safe, and powered in times of crisis. 

“Montanans have always looked out for one another,” said Jonathan Ballew, Energy Share executive director. “Our mission is built on that same spirit - neighbors helping neighbors during life’s toughest moments.” 

Energy Share stands apart for its case-by-case approach to assistance. Rather than relying solely on income qualifications, the organization evaluates each household’s circumstances individually helping people who might not qualify for traditional aid but are still facing significant hardship, such as job loss, medical emergencies, or unexpected financial setbacks. 

This flexible model ensures that every Montanan, regardless of income level, has access to emergency energy assistance when other options fall short. 

Energy Share’s impact is best seen through the lives it touches. 

A single mother recently faced losing heat in her home after car repairs and childcare costs drained her finances. Energy Share’s timely assistance allowed her to keep her home warm and focus on rebuilding her stability. 

In another case, an elderly woman living alone on Social Security was deceived by someone claiming to repair her car. When she found herself behind on bills and facing a power shutoff, Energy Share stepped in — covering her power bill and helping her regain stability. 

These stories echo across Montana, reflecting the organization’s unwavering commitment to providing a safety net for those in need. 

In Fiscal Year 2025, Energy Share’s programs made a measurable difference statewide: 3,172 households received direct utility bill assistance, with an average award of $561 per household. Of those households, 580 were customers of Montana’s electric cooperatives. 

Over a third of assisted households included seniors and  42% included children. Some, 86, received appliance repairs or replacement, 38 received furnace or water heater upgrades, and 55 households received weatherization services, improving efficiency and reducing long-term costs. 

These efficiency programs produced average annual energy savings of $543 per household, underscoring the lasting value of Energy Share’s work. 

Energy Share’s reach extends across the state through partnerships with Montana’s ten Human Resource Development Councils (HRDCs). These community-based agencies process applications, assess needs, and deliver services directly to residents with local expertise and compassion. 

To learn how to donate or to apply for assistance, visit www.energysharemt.com or call 1-888-779-7589.