Rep. Humphrey and Rep. Jarrells discuss opportunities for relief funding for those affected by power outages
COLUMBUS – State Representatives Latyna M. Humphrey (D-Columbus) and Dontavius Jarrells (D-Columbus) hosted a press conference last Friday, July 1, 2022, to discuss the remaining opportunities for those seeking relief after recent June power outages.
“The recent power outages had a direct effect on my constituents in House District 26. It was saddening to see the amount of elders and children in need of shelter, food, and water,” said Rep. Humphrey. “I advocated fiercely for accountability, and it starts here today. I am happy that my colleague, Rep. Jarrells, and I were able to put together such an amazing event, and thank you to all who came out to learn about the resources that are being offered in Columbus.”
Over 170,000 Columbus residents were left without power as a result of American Electric Power (AEP) Ohio’s decision to cut power to certain areas of the city.
“Based on the projections from agencies we've spoken to, hundreds of families are still hurting from the outage,” said Rep. Jarrells. “That's why I'm glad to join Rep. Humphrey in discussing the resources available to assist our community. This is not the end of these discussions, and I hope that we, in partnership with AEP Ohio and others, will continue to provide resources to help ease the burden and help get families back on track.”
In their effort to assist the thousands of central Ohioans who lost power, AEP expanded an existing program that offers statement credits to power customers, and the company donated a total of $1 million to the Mid-Ohio Food Collective, LifeCare Alliance, Columbus Urban League and IMPACT Community Action.