Ameren is expanding its support for families, small businesses and nonprofits across Missouri and Illinois with $10 million in new funding to help customers manage rising energy costs. The investment strengthens assistance programs that have become essential for households navigating tighter budgets and reflects the company’s broader commitment to standing with the communities it serves.
Gwen Mizell, Ameren’s senior vice president and chief sustainability officer, said the company’s work is built on the fact that reliable energy and strong communities rise together. “At Ameren, we know our strength is tied to the strength of the communities we serve,” Mizell said.
She added that the company’s commitment centers on protecting the safety and reliability of the energy system, supporting economic development and job creation, and standing with customers when needs arise.
“As customers face rising costs across many areas, that need is clearer than ever, making this support especially important,” she added.
The additional funding will help eligible customers reduce past‑due balances, manage high bills and avoid falling further behind. Ameren leaders say the goal is to make sure people can stay connected to an essential service while working toward more stable footing. Joe Solari, Ameren’s vice president of customer experience, said the company’s approach goes beyond traditional bill‑pay assistance. “Many families are facing real financial pressures, and keeping energy costs as low as possible remains one of our most important responsibilities,” he said.
Solari pointed to energy‑efficiency programs, weatherization support and protections designed to help shield customers from emerging cost pressures — all aimed at helping households manage their energy use long‑term.
In Illinois, the new funding will support several programs that have long served as lifelines for residents and local organizations. Warm Neighbors Cool Friends, a matching‑grant program for income‑qualified households, will receive additional support. The Non‑Residential Hardship Program, which assists small businesses and nonprofits facing financial challenges, is being relaunched. Ameren Illinois is also renewing its Military Program, which provides grants to active‑duty service members and veterans. Kim Bond, manager of customer assistance for Ameren Illinois, said the support helps families stay connected during difficult moments. “Every customer deserves access to safe, reliable energy, especially during difficult financial moments,” she said. Bond added that when fewer customers fall behind, it strengthens communities and creates a more stable energy system for everyone.
Missouri customers will see expanded support through several programs as well. Dollar More, which provides assistance through partner agencies, will receive additional funding. The Energy Relief Grant, a one‑time assistance program for qualified customers, is being relaunched. Ameren Missouri Military & Veterans Support will continue offering grants to service members and veterans. The Non‑Residential Hardship Program, which supports small businesses and nonprofits, is also being renewed. Page Selby, manager of customer advocacy for Ameren Missouri, said the funding underscores Ameren’s long‑standing commitment to the region. “We understand that many customers are balancing competing financial priorities, and reliable energy remains a basic necessity,” she said. Selby added that Ameren’s role includes supporting the people and neighborhoods that make Missouri home — something the company has focused on for more than a century.
Through September 2026, Ameren customers have already received more than $107 million in energy assistance. The company also continues to invest in programs that help customers better understand and manage their energy use, including efficiency and weatherization resources.
Residents and business owners can learn more about available assistance at Ameren.com/Assistance.