ACC runs two programs that have helped seniors and non-native English speakers in the greater Sacramento region with their phone, internet, and other utility bills. Funded by the California Public Utilities Commission, Telecommunications Education and Assistance in Multiple-languages (TEAM) and Community Help and Awareness of Natural Gas and Electricity Services (CHANGES) help older adults sustain their independent and lifestyle. Or more simply, save money and avoid unwanted charges.
Our programs provide a wide range of services, ranging from as simple as setting up a new phone to resolving complicated disputes with utility companies. We also hold utility education workshops in different languages to educate consumers.
On resident at ACC Greenhaven Terrace was very happy with ACC for the help received in setting up and using his brand new smartphone. He is now an expert. Another client was shocked to discover a “Core Transport Agent” charge on his PG&E bill. He was overpaying his gas bills for five years without realizing it! Many people are happy to enroll in our assistance program that helps them reduce their monthly utility bills.
Utility bills are part of everyday life and paying them is an “activity of daily living.” However, everyone has the right to fully understand what they are being charged and question anything that does not make sense.
According to the TEAM and CHANGES 2019-2020 annual reports, over 2,700 consumers received assistance for issues related to telecommunication and over 5,400 consumers received assistance for issues related to utilities from June 2019 to May 2020 in California.
ACC’s utility assistance program protects the rights of consumers including those with limited English literacy. Our staff works hand in hand with interpreters of different languages to ensure the highest quality of service.
Looking forward to a new year of 2022, we continue to serve as many people in need as we can. It has been announced that 3G wireless network is scheduled to shut down in 2022. This not only impacts older cell phones but also certain medical devices, life alert systems, and security systems.
Are your cell phones or other devices part of the 3G network? Our utility assistance program offers free consultation if you are worried about being impacted by this 3G network shut down. You can schedule an appointment with us if you have questions about your phone service or have other utility bills you don’t understand.
Mr. and Mrs. Chow learned about ACC utility assistance program from one of the virtual education workshops ACC hosted. They found it useful and have referred the program to many of their friends in need.
“All my friends are grateful for our referral. They all said the program staff is helpful and friendly.” said Mrs. Chow. “We will continue recommending this program to those in need for utility assistance!”
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