LANSING - Serving millions of customers and with a large presence in the state of Michigan, Consumers Energy recently began it's third winter participating in the Consumer's CARE program.

According to the Consumers Energy website, the CARE program helps qualified customers afford and better manage their monthly energy costs by receiving a monthly credit on their energy bill. The program also assists Consumers Energy customers with a past due balance.

Brian Wheeler, a spokesman for Consumers Energy, says changing circumstances with employment and other areas could cause financial hardship on a household and could result in delinquent energy bill payments.

With the winter months quickly approaching, Wheeler says Consumers knows about the financial hardships of Michiganders and they want to make sure their customers are still warm during the winter.

That's when CARE steps in.

"It's really designed as a path to self-sufficiency. We want to get rid of your past balances, and get you on good footing so that you can go forward and never have to deal with being behind on bills again," Wheeler said.

CARE assists over 10,000 Consumers customers with financial hardship. The season begins in October and the company is currently in the process of re-enrolling for this winter.

Wheeler says funding for the program comes from Federal dollars that come to the State of Michigan, that are then dispersed to Consumers Energy.

That funding is given to the company in pieces over time.

He said currently the program is focused on re-enrolling the previously enrolled participants in the program. However, the company will still provide resources to those who are in need by simply dialing 2-1-1.

"It operates statewide, it's a resource agency. Whether it's your energy bill or other needs that you have…They can connect you with different social service agencies that can be assistance," he said.

Beyond the CARE program, Wheeler says Consumers Energy can negotiate a payment plan and spread out payments over time if customers are in a short term need. Seniors, regardless of their income can qualify for shutoff protection.

"Between November 1st and the end of March, if you identify yourself as a senior who has an account with us, we won't shutoff your power for any reason during that time period." Wheeler says.

Wheeler says despite this qualification, customers are still required to make payments on their account.

"The key is to work with us so we can figure out a plan to get you on the road to self-sufficiency and to stay there."

Wheeler says financial situations can change very quickly and it's best not to hesitate in reaching out for assistance.

"By all means, stay on top of your situation, and work up front. The faster you can address a problem the sooner it can be taken care of and know that assistance is there…there are a lot of different things that are available whatever peoples needs might be," Wheeler added.