More Bruce Grey Families Starting This Winter Already Behind on Utility Bills, New Data Shows
United Way data reveals deepening affordability challenges in Bruce Grey as households fall behind on heat and electricity earlier in the winter season than usual.
A growing number of households in Bruce and Grey counties are entering the coldest months of the year already behind on utility bills, according to new data from United Way Bruce Grey’s Utility Assistance Program.
The trend signals a deeper shift in household financial stability across the region, particularly for families with children and older adults on fixed incomes.
The program, which helps low-income residents avoid disconnection from electricity and heating, supported 302 households over the past year — a total of 751 people, including 236 children and 106 seniors. Notably, senior requests for help doubled compared to the previous winter.
While emergency assistance is not new, what stands out in this year’s report is how early in the season many households are falling into arrears. Requests for help rose 27% in January compared to the same time the previous year, and nearly doubled in February, when households typically begin to struggle after winter heating bills accumulate.
“This is new,” said Francesca Dobbyn, Executive Director of United Way Bruce Grey, during the release of the data.
“Families are entering winter already in crisis. That used to be rare. The numbers show people are falling behind earlier and staying behind longer.”
On average, the households receiving help had an annual income of just $22,557. Many are working-age adults or seniors living on limited government income supports, struggling to meet rising costs of housing, food, and energy. The total value of emergency grants issued was $183,973.
The data provides a snapshot of broader affordability pressures in Bruce and Grey counties, where housing and utility costs have steadily risen over the past several years while many incomes have remained stagnant.
The Utility Assistance Program is funded through a combination of donor support and partnerships with energy providers and local services. While it offers vital short-term relief, the organization emphasizes the importance of early intervention and broader policy change to address long-term financial insecurity.
Residents facing disconnection or already behind on utility bills can call 211 — a free, 24/7 helpline that connects people to local programs and services. Staff can provide information on:
utility and energy assistance,
financial literacy and budgeting,
housing and emergency supports,
senior-specific services,
and fuel or heating programs.
United Way Bruce Grey says it will continue to monitor and publish data from its programs to help inform local planning and advocate for stronger supports at the community and government levels.