The Plus-1 program was created in 1982 and is a partnership between MIFA and MLGW that provides utility assistance for individuals and families in financial crisis.

Where does the money come from?

MLGW customers sign up to donate by agreeing to add at least $1 per month to their utility bill to go to the program. Anyone can also make a one-time donation for any amount.

Who decides who gets help from Plus-1?

MIFA screens clients for eligibility and priority and authorizes payments from the Plus-1 fund to their accounts. The average eligible household receives $200 in assistance, plus negotiation with MLGW to establish a payment plan for the balance.

How many families get help from Plus-1?

10,700 customers—or roughly 2.5% of the total population MLGW serves—contributed enough last year to help about 1,300 families. If every MLGW customer gave just $1 per month, MIFA could serve more than 20,000 families per year through Plus-1.  Watch this News Channel 3 story about how Plus-1 works.

What’s the Plus-1 PUSH?

It’s a day long effort on Monday, April 8, sponsored by MIFA, to increase awareness and participation of the Plus-1 program in the metropolitan Memphis community.  It will feature live reports all day on WREG News Channel 3, ending with a 30 minute program at 6:30 p.m.  The show will focus on people who have been helped by Plus-1 and a phone panel to answer questions and help MLGW customers sign up to help.