Imagine going out on a cold winter day knowing that you’ll need to decide between buying groceries, paying rent, buying a winter jacket or paying your utility bill. This is a reality that many in our community face every day, and the need has only grown through the pandemic. At Trellis we strive to be there for people when they go through life’s challenges, but we would not be able to do this alone. That’s why we are excited to announce that ENMAX is boosting their financial support through a strengthened two-year partnership!

For fifteen years ENMAX has continually stepped up for the people and families we serve. This time around, their partnership will include a donation of $150,000 per year to offer families support with grocery costs, utility bill management and financial coaching, helping to set people up for longer-term sustainability.  

Since establishing their partnership in 2006, ENMAX has contributed over $750,000 to support utility programs, provide opportunities for vulnerable youth and create meaningful holiday experiences. 

“This partnership will have a positive impact on ensuring strong supports to those we serve — reducing poverty, strengthening housing stability and offering mental health supports through our continuum of programs and services,” said Trellis CEO Jeff Dyer. “We are grateful to the ENMAX team for truly listening to the needs in the community and giving intentionally during such a challenging season.” 

Who ENMAX is helping

ENMAX’s partnership is set to support our Community Connections and Home Stay programs, which focus on prevention and early intervention. These programs help individuals and families stay sustainably housed by connecting them to resources in the community, providing financial assistance when eligible and offering education to help residents understand their energy bills and reduce home energy use. Trellis also runs an annual Winter Breather Fund to empower individuals and families in our programs to create their own meaningful holiday experience while focusing on long-term goals. 

“The economic pressures during this pandemic have increased the need for community agencies like Trellis and made their work that much more vital,” said Diana Stephenson, Vice President, Public Affairs and Sustainability at ENMAX. “We are proud to enhance our long-standing partnership with Trellis and show our appreciation for the important contribution they make to our communities.”  

Last year the Winter Breather program had a family who missed Christmas in 2019 due to the children being apprehended and placed into foster care. After nine months without in-person visits, the parents wanted to do everything they could to make the holiday season special and remind their kids of all of their wonderful family memories. But due to legal fees, reduced work hours for one parent and a COVID layoff for the other, they were struggling to make ends meet.

Thanks to generous donors like ENMAX this family received grocery support and was able to have a beautiful Christmas feast (Mom even learned how to make a bacon weave for the turkey)! ENMAX’s enhanced support of the Winter Breather program will allow Trellis to help so many more families this winter season and ensure they do not have to choose between heat, groceries or holiday experiences.

It is partnerships like this one with ENMAX that makes it possible for Trellis to think outside the box and support people differently in a way that builds resilience and gives them the power to thrive.

Join us in making a difference for individuals and families this holiday season by giving them the relief they need for a better tomorrow!