It is one of the coldest days of the season and families trying to make ends meet dread this time of year; when it becomes a struggle to stay warm in their homes.

DTE Energy is setting up shop today at Cobo Center in downtown Detroit for it's third "Customer Assistance Day" held this year.

Senior Vice President Joyce Hayes-Giles knows the need is great. She says struggling homeowners can seek payment relief before the risk of shutoff.

"The purpose is to assist our customers, help them with applications for state emergency relief funds, provide them with opportunities to meet with other human services agencies, get home weatherization assistance" Giles told WWJ Newsradio 950. "We're trying to help our customers manage their energy bills and keep their service on during the winter months."

DTE says more than 3,000 people pre-registered for the all-day event. The utility required customers to register in advance, after similar events in the past drew huge crowds.

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