You can apply online with Love, INC. You may also apply in person at the Love INC office, located at 603 3rd Street, Fairbanks, AK 99701.
Benevolent Fund FAQ
Love INC is charging no administrative fees to administer the fund on behalf of GVEA, meaning that there will be more funds available to assist members. Love INC also administered the CARES Act funds, the AHFC assistance program, and will be reviewing similar eligibility criteria here. Additionally, Love INC is connected to over 50 programs and services that may further assist members in need.
Yes, you can donate to the fund. Electronic and check payments are accepted by Love, INC to add to the fund.
GVEA's Board of Directors approved a contribution of $250,000 to start the fund. This money comes from GVEA's non-operating funds (i.e., rents paid, interest earnings, etc.). These costs are not recoverable through rates as they are not associated with providing electric service to our Members. Therefore, Members will not see an impact on their bill due to the fund.
Members approved for financial assistance may be approved for up to a maximum of $750. If the member owes less than $750 on an account, any credit shall be capped at the current account balance. In no instance shall any payment from the Benevolent Fund exceed the balance of the member's account.
No, a joint member is not eligible for financial assistance through the Benevolent Fund if assistance has already been paid to another member on the account for the same service address.
The Benevolent Fund is not available to those who previously utilized any COVID relief funds to pay electric bills. Additionally, no member may receive more than 1 lifetime credit from the fund. If a joint member also applies to the Benevolent Fund, they will not be eligible if financial assistance through the Benevolent Fund was already paid to another member on the account for the same service address.
To be eligible for the Benevolent Fund, individuals must meet the following criteria:
- The individual is a current member of Golden Valley Electric Association (GVEA)
- The member is currently in past due or delinquent status and at risk of disconnect
- The member provides appropriate proof of financial hardship (i.e. layoff notices, bank statements, etc.) to Helping Alaska