continued from page 4 honored to be part of such an impactful program. She remembers one family’s application in particular. “We awarded funds for medical travel for a family living locally. They had a son undergoing cancer treatment in Texas. The mother and father had to split time with one working and taking care of the kids at home and the other living in Texas for medical care,” said Allen. “I still think about how important and needed that grant was for the family.” Ronnie Fulks of District 3 serving Lexington, Slaughterville and east Noble continues the theme. “I enjoy helping and serving others,” he said. “Every time we are able to help an individual with dental work, eyeglasses, wheel chair ramps, or whatever the need, I feel good about what we are doing. I am a proud OEC member not in small part because of this program.” Beckie Turner of Amber has proudly served District 9 for 12 years. She helps ensure the Foundation’s dollars have positive impact on OEC’s most rural members in Amber, Pocasset, Verden, Blanchard, Chickasha, Dibble, Minco and Mustang. “It has been a joy to see our Operation Round Up dollars do so much good,” she said. “Being a part of that is a true blessing. It is amazing that so many can be helped when everyone gives just a little.” Pat Ragsdale, a retired high school principal who now raises cattle and tends to a small farm, represents the Tuttle and Bridge Creek area in District 7. He’s the newest member of the board and enjoys making a difference. “It is an honor and privilege to give back to your community,” said Ragsdale. “I believe being a member of this board is an excellent way to serve.” Travis Scott of District 6, serving Goldsby, Washington and Purcell, still works full time operating a sand and gravel company and feels the same. “I serve because being a part of something bigger than ourselves creates something special for our
surrounding area,” he said. “We have the ability to help out, ease a burden and just do the right thing for many families in a time of need. Serving gives me the opportunity to learn about what our community really needs and provides the tools to make an impact.” Current OEC Foundation president Alan Davenport of Newcastle said it best. “My views on ORU are basic — it is great! It is easy and so inexpensive I don’t know why anyone would opt out.” Davenport goes on to explain that a member would at most give $11.88 per year if they rounded up 99 cents per month. On average, members donate about $6 per year to the program. “That small change goes to fund equipment for fire and police departments, food programs for school-aged kids, summer reading programs and so much more.” Davenport recalls one application from the Newcastle Fire Department that made an impact on how he feels about serving. “Several years ago the Newcastle Fire Department requested swift water rescue equipment that totaled about $3,000. At the time, the Canadian River was so dry it needed to be mowed, but we approved the grant anyway. The following spring the rains came, and the river rolled fast and wide. About a half mile upstream from the I-35 bridge, an individual was stranded in the middle of the river hanging on to a brush pile. The Newcastle Fire Department used the swift water rescue equipment to reach this person just before the brush pile broke up. Without the right equipment, the man would have drowned.” Those who so generously round up their electric bills each month help save lives. They help clothe children, feed the hungry, build accessible ramps, ease the burden of costly medical bills and more. Thank you to those who have helped the Foundation grant more than $5 million to meet local needs since 1994. Your dollars have stayed local and your communities are better because of you.
OECORU toREPORT resume disconnects for non-payment in July As we have responded to COVID-19, we have been ever-focused on our members’ needs. We have worked hard to ensure that you have access to reliable electricity without fear of financial hardship. As we move forward, we will be resuming disconnects in July. Please note that we are extending flexibility in our payment arrangement policies during this time, and our friendly member service associates are ready to help you every way we can.
PAYMENT ARRANGEMENTS • You can make custom payment arrangements by phone or on your SmartHub mobile app for any past due or current bills. We will continue to be flexible as we navigate this season. • You can still make payments via the SmartHub mobile app, online at www. okcoop.org or at one of the dozens of PaySite kiosks located throughout our service area, as well as the payment drop-off in our drive-thru lane at 242 24th Avenue NW in Norman. • If you have outstanding debt due to this COVID-19 pandemic, you can apply (if you are eligible) for assistance at www. okdhslive.org (note that you will need an official cut-off letter from OEC so please contact us at (405)321-2024). We will continue to be very flexible as we craft payment arrangements. BUDGET BILLING Sign up for Budget Billing today to manage your household expenses and plan for seasonal fluctuations in your bill. Benefits of Budget Billing: • More predictable monthly bills • Minimal monthly usage fluctuation • Enroll at www.okcoop.org/averagemonthly-billing OTHER FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE Other assistance may be available to you through the Oklahoma Department of Human Services, which administers the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). Call 211 to learn more and find additional assistance. www.okcoop.org
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