Ameren Boosts Energy Bill Assistance for Missouri & Illinois Customers in 2026
As the new year unfolds, Ameren is making a powerful call to its residential customers across Missouri and Illinois: Don’t let energy costs become a burden. The utility giant is emphasizing the wide array of resources still available to support qualifying households with their energy bills throughout 2026, encouraging proactive application for these vital assistance programs.
Navigating the colder months and managing household expenses can be challenging. Ameren understands this and, in addition to its own company-funded initiatives, proudly partners with key community organizations to ensure no one is left in the cold. Collaborations with the United Way of Greater St. Louis, the Energy Assistance Foundation, and a network of hundreds of Community Action Agencies facilitate access to crucial funds, including the well-known Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).
Don’t Wait: The Power of Early Application
“As we start the new year, we’re encouraging customers in need to make one simple resolution: Don’t wait to ask for help,” advises Joe Solari, Ameren’s Vice President of Customer Experience. “Applying early for energy assistance prevents small challenges from becoming big burdens after the cold weather passes. Our teams are here to support you the moment you need it.”
This proactive approach can make a significant difference, ensuring continuous comfort and peace of mind for families across both states. Ameren’s commitment extends beyond providing energy; it’s about powering a better quality of life.
Missouri Assistance Spotlight: The Dollar More Program
For its Missouri service territory, Ameren works hand-in-hand with the United Way of Greater St. Louis and local Community Action Agencies to deliver the impactful Dollar More program. This program, funded by the generosity of voluntary donations from individuals and Ameren itself, provides essential bill help. Recognizing a heightened need, Ameren further boosted this initiative in December with an additional $2 million contribution for Missouri customers.
Michelle D. Tucker, President and CEO of United Way of Greater St. Louis, highlights the program’s essence: “Dollar More remains one of the most meaningful examples of neighbors helping neighbors. We see the impact every day, and we’re proud to partner with Ameren to ensure that anyone facing a difficult moment can access the help they need, exactly when they need it.”
Illinois Assistance Spotlight: Warm Neighbors Cool Friends
Similarly, customers in Ameren’s Illinois service territory can benefit from Warm Neighbors Cool Friends. Partnering with the Energy Assistance Foundation, this program is also powered by voluntary donations and Ameren’s direct contributions. In December, Ameren injected an additional $2 million into this program to address the increasing demand for energy bill assistance in Illinois.
Susan Sams, Executive Director of the Energy Assistance Foundation, underscores its importance: “Warm Neighbors Cool Friends acts as a critical lifeline for hardworking families who may not qualify for federal assistance but are still struggling to keep their homes safe and comfortable. We’re proud to partner with Ameren so its customers have somewhere to turn when they need support the most.”
Broader Impact and Community Contributions
The collective efforts of Ameren and its partners are substantial. Throughout 2025, over $140 million in energy assistance and LIHEAP support was made available to customers across both states. This includes a significant $250,000 grant from Ameren in December to Heat Up St. Louis, a vital nonprofit serving seniors, people with disabilities, and income-eligible families in Missouri and Illinois.
Ben Turec, Board President of Heat Up St. Louis, commended the ongoing collaboration: “Our longstanding collaboration with Ameren strengthens our ability to serve the region’s most vulnerable neighbors. If you are experiencing difficulty with your energy bill, please reach out for assistance to HeatupStlouis.org.”
How to Access Support
Don’t let uncertainty delay your application for energy bill help. For comprehensive information on all available resources and to begin the application process, visit Ameren.com/Assistance. Your comfort and safety are a priority, and assistance is readily available.
