How SSVEC is Helping During the Government Shutdown

In Sierra Vista and Cochise County, we're feeling the effects of the government shutdown more than in other parts of Arizona. The uncertainty of when and if some of us will get a paycheck has caused a ripple effect felt in homes and small businesses across the county.

How Our Local Electric Cooperative is Helping Families in Cochise County

As the federal government shutdown continues, local families are feeling the strain. In a press release, Sulfur Springs Valley Electric Cooperative (SSVEC) announced that it is stepping up to support our community.

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How Does the Government Shutdown Affect Sierra Vista?

There are deep ties between Sierra Vista’s economy and federal employment. Between the military personnel stationed here and the civilian jobs on Fort Huachuca, a large part of our local economy has been affected by the shutdown.

In response, SSVEC has activated its Member Support Plan for Furloughed Employees. With the current budget stand-off in Congress and the uncertainty about when paychecks will resume, the cooperative is providing flexible, compassionate options for members facing financial hardship.

“The cooperative’s goal is to provide understanding, flexibility, and compassion during this uncertain time,” said Jason Bowling, SSVEC’s Chief Executive Officer.

Finding an option that works for your family may be as simple as a telephone call.

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What Options are Available for Furloughed Government Workers?

According to the press release, SSVEC is offering the following options for federal employees:

• Flexible payment extensions. Members affected by furloughs may receive extended payment arrangements beyond the normal limits.
• Deposit assistance. Existing account deposits may be temporarily applied toward current bills, with the deposit restored later through installments.
• Debt recovery adjustments for prepaid accounts. SSVEC may adjust or waive certain limits to provide relief for prepaid members with outstanding balances.
• Referrals to local assistance agencies. Representatives from SSVEC can help connect members with community resources and aid organizations for additional support.

Providing Empathetic Solutions for SSVEC Members

Sulfur Springs Valley Electric Cooperative knows the shutdown is causing a lot of stress, and they're here to help/ As Member Engagement VP Cory East explains:

“Our member service teams have been trained to listen with empathy and to find the best solution for each individual situation,” said Cory East, Vice President of Member Engagement. “We understand this is a stressful time, and our goal is to ease that burden wherever possible.”

SSVEC is taking a proactive approach to offer a much-needed safety net. If you or someone you know has been affected by the shutdown, don't wait; reach out to SSVEC to find the option that works best for you and your family.

You can call SSVEC at (800) 422-3275 or visit their website at SSVEC.org.