Virginia Natural Gas shares financial assistance programs for winter heating bills

Bill payment assistance programs are available to help ensure warmth and comfort for all 

VIRGINIA BEACH, VA – October 14, 2025 – As winter approaches, Virginia Natural Gas (VNG) is reaffirming its commitment to the community by sharing a range of bill payment assistance programs and energy-saving resources. These efforts are designed to help income-eligible customers maintain financial stability and access the warmth and comfort every household deserves.

“Virginia Natural Gas has a long-standing tradition of supporting our neighbors through practical solutions and compassionate outreach,” said Shannon O. Pierce, president and CEO of Virginia Natural Gas. “Every person deserves access to warmth and comfort, especially during the winter months. We understand this season can bring added financial pressure, and we want our customers to know they’re not alone. These programs are here to provide support, stability and peace of mind.”

Bill payment assistance programs

If you or someone you know is experiencing financial hardship, Virginia Natural Gas offers access to several programs that may be able to help:

• LIHEAP Enrollment: The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program is open for enrollment from Oct. 14 – Nov. 14, 2025. LIHEAP helps eligible individuals pay heating bills and is administered through local departments of social services. Benefits are based on available funding and are distributed on a first-come, first-served basis. To apply, call 800.230.6977, option 9, or visit the Virginia Department of Social Services.
• EnergyShare Program: Supported by voluntary contributions from VNG employees and customers, this year-round program is administered by the Salvation Army. It provides bill payment assistance to income-eligible households
• Crisis Assistance: Designed for emergency situations, this program helps eligible households when other resources fall short. Customers should contact their local department of social services for more information.
• 211 Virginia: This free service connects individuals and families to essential community resources, including emergency shelter, food, clothing, and financial assistance. Call 2-1-1 or visit 211virginia.org.
  
  

Budgeting for seasonal energy bills

• Budget Plan: Avoid seasonal spikes in your bill by spreading energy costs evenly throughout the year. Accounts must be current to enroll.
• Deferred Payment Arrangement Plan: Customers with past-due balances can inquire about deferred payment options to help avoid service disconnection.
  
  

To get started, visit: virginianaturalgas.com/residential/ways-to-save.html.

For more information about Virginia Natural Gas’s Bill Payment Assistance Programs, visit: virginianaturalgas.com/residential/billing-and-payment-options/bill-payment-assistance.html

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About Virginia Natural Gas
Virginia Natural Gas is one of four natural gas distribution companies under Southern Company Gas, a wholly owned subsidiary of Southern Company (NYSE: SO). Serving over 310,000 customers in southeast Virginia, Virginia Natural Gas was again named a Top Workplace in 2024. The company has earned recognition for its safety, reliability and customer focus among natural gas service providers, and was named 2024 LDC of the Year by the VA Dept of Energy and VA Oil & Gas Association. For more information, visit virginianaturalgas.com and connect with the company on Facebook, X, Instagram and LinkedIn.

About Southern Company Gas
Southern Company Gas is a wholly owned subsidiary of Atlanta-based Southern Company (NYSE: SO), one of America’s premier energy companies. Southern Company Gas serves approximately 4.4 million natural gas utility customers through its regulated distribution companies in four states and more than 600,000 retail customers through its natural gas marketing businesses. The company also invests in interstate pipelines, provides asset management for natural gas wholesale customers, and owns and operates natural gas storage facilities. For more information, visit http://www.southerncompanygas.com.