Resources for Members
Members experiencing financial hardship as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic are encouraged to contact their electric cooperative for information on potential financial and energy assistance programs available to members. The following assistance programs are also available in North Carolina:
- Housing Opportunities and Prevention of Evictions (HOPE) program
- USDA COVID-19 Federal Rural Resource Guide (page 6)
Resources for Small Businesses
The following organizations have resources available to small businesses in response to the COVID-19 pandemic:
- Business and Industry CARES Act Program
- USDA Business and Industry Loan Guarantees
- USDA COVID-19 Federal Rural Resource Guide (pages 2-3)
- U.S. Small Business Administration COVID-19 Small Business Guidance and Loan Resources
- N.C. Department of Commerce Resources for N.C. Businesses
- Economic Development Partnership of N.C.: Business Reopening Resources
- N.C. COVID-19 Rapid Recovery Lending Program
- Carolina Small Business Development Fund
- Small Business Center Network COVID-19 Resources
- N.C. Small Business and Technology Development Center
- N.C. Procurement Technical Assistance Center
- N.C. Restaurant and Lodging Association: N.C. Restaurant Workers Relief Fund
Staying Vigilant Against Scams
Cooperative members are reminded to be vigilant against scams, which can increase during uncertain times.
Your cooperative will never threaten immediate disconnection or ask for payment using a pre-paid debit card or cryptocurrency. Your cooperative will also never demand payment in person or over the phone. If you receive a call or visit from someone claiming to represent your electric cooperative, do not give out personal information such as your credit card number, account number or Social Security number. Call your cooperative directly using a verified number before providing any information regarding your account.
Don’t open suspicious emails. Hold your cursor over links to view their full address before clicking, even if the email was sent by someone you know. If the link looks questionable, contact the sender to verify the link before clicking. When in doubt, play it safe and delete it.
Learn more about regional scams and how to protect yourself by familiarizing yourself with these tips and best practices from the N.C. Department of Justice.
Energy Savings
As we spend more time working, learning and playing at home, our home energy use may increase. A few small changes can help make a big difference in energy costs. Visit our Energy Tips page to learn more.
