WALLA WALLA, Wash. — Pacific Power and The Salvation Army are launching their annual Project HELP partnership to help seniors, disabled individuals and low-income families obtain the energy they need this winter. Pacific Power customers are urged to look for donation envelopes included with their November electricity bills.

"This partnership has helped many people with their power costs at a time when they have needed it most," said Becky Eberle, Pacific Power program manager. "Our customers always have been very generous in their donations, and Pacific Power gives directly to the program beyond the funds contributed by customers."

The Walla Walla Salvation Army office receives Project HELP donations from Pacific Power and its customers and distributes those funds directly to those who need it most. In the 2005-2006 heating season, 169 households in the Walla Walla area received assistance through the program. Pacific Power and its customers contributed more than $18,700 to make this possible.

"The Salvation Army is able to use these funds to lend a helping hand to the less fortunate in our communities," said Joanne Reinikka, social services director with The Salvation Army. "Heat and light are among the most basic of needs during the winter months for the families we serve. The affiliation between Pacific Power and The Salvation Army helps us to meet those needs and gives us an opportunity to assess additional family needs as well."

Donations to Project HELP can be made using donation envelopes included with November Pacific Power bills.

Media inquiries: newsdesk@pacificorp.com