Hey, Consumers Energy! Why are you always giving away our money to nonprofit organizations? Just lower our bills!
I saw a Facebook post about you giving away money to food banks and United Ways. And I know I’ve seen other money given to wildlife organizations and to sponsor projects in towns no one has ever heard of. What’s the deal? Why don’t you just stick to the power business and help your customers instead?
Okay – I think there is a misunderstanding, but we get the sentiments – let’s straighten things out.
At Consumers Energy we believe it’s important to give back to the communities that have given so much to us. And while our primary business might be pipes and wires to deliver gas and electricity to the people of Michigan, we are more than just an energy provider. So, why do we care so much about making a difference across the state and donating to worthy causes? That’s easy. With more than 9,000 employees and thousands more retirees– we do more than work in Michigan, we live and play here too. We’re committed to supporting the Great Lakes State where our friends, neighbors and customers also call home.
We also hear your questions about how this work is funded, so let’s talk about that.
The Consumers Energy Foundation, the charitable arm of Consumers Energy, contributes to the growth and strengthening of Michigan communities by investing in nonprofit organizations who are making a difference in three areas crucial to all of us and our Great Lakes State — our people, our planet and Michigan’s prosperity.
The Consumers Energy Foundation is not funded by your (or any customers’) bill payments. As an investor-owned company, we are owned by people just like you. The money given on behalf of the Consumers Energy Foundation comes from shareholders, or the people who buy stock in Consumers Energy.
We have been giving back to Michigan for 135 years and we will continue to help our local communities thrive. In 2022, the Consumers Energy Foundation, Consumers Energy and our employees and retirees contributed over $19 million to Michigan nonprofits. There will always be more work to do, and we will continue to make a difference in the state that means so much to us.
And all our investments – whether in people, the planet, or Michigan’s prosperity – are grounded in our commitment to Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DE&I). We emphasize DE&I in all funding areas and support social justice programs that advance equity.
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And customers are always welcome to call us at 1-800-477-5050 to discuss payment arrangements or other programs that can help with their specific situation.
