LOUISVILLE, Ky. — Due to the recent colder weather, which translates into greater energy usage, E.ON U.S. will make additional funds available to customers in need who struggle to pay their winter heating bills.

Specifically, E.ON U.S. is increasing its customer match for the heating assistance programs, Winterhelp and WinterCare, from 25 cents to $1 — four times the traditional match. The increased match will be retroactive, beginning Nov. 1 and continuing through April 30.

Community Winterhelp and the WinterCare Energy Assistance Fund are nonprofit programs promoted by Louisville Gas and Electric Company and Kentucky Utilities Company, respectively. Both programs are managed by an independent third party, and the utilities play no role in determining eligibility. Combined since 1983, the programs have raised more than $6 million dollars to help families in need pay their winter heating bills.

"We understand that colder weather and increased energy usage as a result can lead to higher utility bills, which can certainly create additional challenges for families in need," said John P. Malloy, Vice President of Energy Delivery — Retail for E.ON U.S. "Increasing our company match to Winterhelp and WinterCare is another way for us to reach out to help those most in need this heating season."

Residential customers may donate to the programs by making a monthly pledge or a one-time contribution. The funds are distributed based on income; however, income guidelines typically are less restrictive than other programs. Donations are tax-deductible.

For eligibility requirements or for more information on Winterhelp, LG&E customers can call 502-561-6836. KU customers should contact their local community action agency.

E.ON U.S., headquartered in Louisville, Ky., is a subsidiary of E.ON A.G., the world's largest investor-owned energy services provider. E.ON U.S. is a diversified energy services company that owns and operates Louisville Gas and Electric Company, a regulated utility that serves 324,000 natural gas and 398,000 electric customers in Louisville and 16 surrounding counties, and Kentucky Utilities Company, a regulated electric utility in Lexington, Ky., that serves 531,000 customers in 77 Kentucky counties and five counties in Virginia.