MARQUETTE — As winter establishes its hold on the region, the Upper Peninsula Power Co. is reminding area residents of resources they might qualify for, including home heating assistance.

“The process for applying for assistance has changed this year,” Brett French, UPPCO’s vice president of business development and communications, said in a press release. “Customers must apply for assistance and support through the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services by applying online at https://michigan.gov/ mibridges. DHHS will determine and establish a customers’ eligibility for home heating assistance.”

Customers can also connect with local agencies through the U.P. 2-1-1 Call Center by dialing 2-1-1 from anywhere in the Upper Peninsula. The call center is administered by the nonprofit U.P. Commission for Area Progress, or UPCAP.

“The U.P. 2-1-1 Call Center is a great resource that people can turn to for information and assistance for a child, aging parent or the entire family,” French said. “2-1-1 can help simplify the process of finding help during a time of need.”

In addition, the state also has its Winter Protection Plan, which covers Nov. 1 through March 31.

The plan helps senior citizens and income-eligible customers manage utility bills and prevent service interruptions, according to UPPCO’s press release.

UPPCO customers interested in the plan should contact the utility company for more information. Income-eligible customers must also apply for energy assistance through DHHS using MI Bridges to stay enrolled in the plan.

Once enrolled, income-eligible customers must pay a portion of their estimated annual bill each month and make monthly payments on any past due bills. Enrolled senior citizens are not required to make payments during the Winter Protection Plan period, but are encouraged to pay whatever they can to avoid large bills when the protection period ends in the spring.

UPPCO customers can call 906-449-2013 or 800-562-7680 to determine if they qualify for the Winter Protection Plan. Additional information can be found online at www.uppco.com.