U.S. Eagle Federal Credit Union, in a partnership with New Mexico Gas Co., has agreed to help pay the heating bills of 85 families in need across the state affected by the COVID-19 pandemic.
The credit union said that as part of its People Helping People initiative it teamed with the utility to pick households from Albuquerque, Bernalillo, Farmington and Santa Fe that were behind on their bills. Each household received $100 toward their bills, according to a news release.
“When I first heard (on a call) this is the gas company, my heart kind of just sunk, and I’m like, ‘Oh gosh, I’ve got to plead my story,’ but then she said, ‘No, I’m calling with good news,’ ” said Amalia Torrez of Albuquerque, who received $100 to pay a late gas bill. “I need some good news. I’m not a member of that credit union, but I sure would like to be. I’ve always banked with credit unions. Always. I love credit unions.”
“It was important that we found a meaningful way to give, collaborate, and celebrate generosity for not only our 85th anniversary but Giving Tuesday,” U.S. Eagle President and CEO Marsha Majors said in a statement.
New Mexico Gas Co. President Ryan Shell noted, “If other customers are in need of financial assistance with their natural gas bills, we ask that they please contact us.”
“It was like the perfect timing ’cause I was stressing over, ‘Oh, my God, how am I gonna pay the whole bill?’ ” said Yvette Sedillo of Albuquerque, who also received help. “It was like perfect timing.”
