Energy assistance foundation taking bill payment applications
•March 18, 2026•
The Energy Assistance Foundation, through its Warm Neighbors Cool Friends (WNCF) program, partners with CEFS Economic Opportunity to provide energy bill payment assistance to eligible Ameren Illinois customers in Christian, Clay, Effingham, Fayette, Montgomery, Moultrie, and Shelby counties. In December 2025, Ameren Illinois contributed an additional $2 million to support Illinois households in 2026—ensuring more families can keep the lights on, stay warm in the winter, and cool in the summer. Through this program, eligible households may receive up to $500 in assistance during the heating season, and up to $400 during the cooling season.