Thousands In Detroit Seek Heating Help

DETROIT (WWJ) - Thousands of Metro Detroiters flocked to Cobo Center Monday, trying to get help through DTE Energy to avoid utility shutoffs as part of Customer Service Day.

Due to the overwhelming turnout, DTE Monday afternoon was telling people not to come to Cobo, but rather call the assistance line at (800) 477-4747. (The event was supposed to continue until 4 p.m.)

Senior Vice President of Customer Service Joyce Hayes Giles said they're working to connect families in need with charities and other utility assistance groups who may be able to keep them out of the cold.

"We feel at DTE that we should step up and help out customers, show them that we care and do everything we can to make sure that they are warm this winter,"Giles told WWJ Newsradio 950's Ron Dewey.

"We can help them in terms of knowing where funds are, with agencies like THAW, Salvation Army, United Way ... we know that and we can help them get matches that way," she said.

Giles estimates about a half-million of their customers are now struggling with their energy bills, a reflection of the economy, at a time there are fewer state and federal funds being made available for such help.

The day has become another exercise in frustration for some customers like Stephanie Jordan of Detroit who showed up, but was turned away.

"There are a lot of people that are upset because they are passing out blue fliers that say 'Welcome to Customer Service Assistance,' but there's no one to actually help," said Jordan.

"I've been hearing it on the radio. They've announced it during church services. People are sending out email and text messages to go down here and get some assistance, and it's just false hope," he said.

A DTE spokesperson said they are planning a second event to take place on a future date.

If you'd like to help struggling families keep the heat on this winter, stay tuned after the holidays for the WWJ Winter Survival Radiothon for THAW, The Heat and Warmth Fund, January 27-28.