DTE Energy launches ‘Caring in the Crisis’ to encourage customers to reach out for help

Awareness effort will spotlight special assistance plans for customers impacted by COVID-19, culminating in May 22 “Day of Caring” radio event

Detroit, May 21, 2020 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- DTE Energy has launched “Caring in the Crisis,” an awareness effort aiming to make sure Detroit-area residents who need help know how to get it during the COVID-19 pandemic.

The effort includes a series of public service announcements and digital messages encouraging DTE customers to contact the company to explore payment assistance and financial help options if they are experiencing a hardship due to COVID-19. It will culminate with a May 22 “Day of Caring” radio event on Detroit stations WJLB, WDMK and WDMK HD2. The “Day of Caring” programming will include messages from influential community leaders and elected officials, all encouraging Detroiters to take advantage of the help available to them.

“Throughout this crisis, we have had one core message to our communities, and that’s ‘we’re here to help you,” said Angie Pizzuti, vice president and chief customer officer, DTE Energy. “There are many people who have never had problems making ends meet, and now are experiencing income loss and don’t know where to turn. We want to connect with them right away to deliver the help that DTE and the state have made available to them.”

DTE formed partnerships with local faith-based leaders, elected officials and human service agencies to create messaging for the campaign, which will be seen and heard on the participating radio stations, social media outlets and other digital channels throughout May.

Guests who will be heard during the May 22 day of caring will include:

• Mayor Mike Duggan, City of Detroit
• Reverend Wendell Anthony, Fellowship Chapel
• Jerry Norcia, president and CEO, DTE Energy
• Pastor Solomon Kinloch, Triumph Church
• Commissioner Tremaine Phillips, Michigan Public Service Commission
• Dr. Darienne Hudson, CEO, The United Way
• Louis Piszker, CEO, Wayne Metropolitan Community Action Agency
• Eric Sabree, treasurer, Wayne County Tax Office

DTE Energy has taken multiple actions to respond to customer needs during the COVID-19 crisis, with programs available by calling 800.477.4747: