LOS ANGELES, April 24, 2009 – During these tough economic times, saving every penny counts.  To help struggling families, the California Public Utilities Commission (CPUC), Southern California Gas Co. (SoCalGas) and Los Angeles Department of Water and Power (LADWP) have teamed up to stage a “We CARE” California Resource Fair in South Los Angeles.

        The South Los Angeles We CARE California Resource Fair is one of a series of public events produced throughout the state this week by the CPUC and the investor-owned utilities – Pacific Gas & Electric, SoCalGas, San Diego Gas & Electric and Southern California Edison.  We CARE California Resource Fairs help raise awareness to consumers on ways they can save money, such as through the California Alternate Rates for Energy (CARE) program, which offers qualifying customers a 20-percent discount on their energy bill. 

        “For the past four years through the WE Connect Campaign, I have partnered with hundreds of organizations to empower Californians with information they need to get ahead," said Maria Shriver, California’s First Lady.  "These tough economic times make it more important than ever for families to learn about help that is available to them.  I applaud the efforts made through the PUC’s We CARE events to connect Californians with information about low cost utility services, low cost health coverage and other existing resources to help them become more financially secure.” 

        “So many people are struggling in this economy and we hope these events will raise their awareness about the programs and services we have available to help them,” said Dian M. Grueneich, CPUC Commissioner.  “There are many people that may not have previously qualified for our programs, but they do now.  They should be encouraged to enroll and get help with their bills.”

        At the events, consumers can learn about CARE and other assistance programs offered by the utilities, as well as about programs from community-based organizations, telephone and water companies, financial assistance and counseling services, and more. 

        “SoCalGas is focused on getting help quickly to the newly unemployed who’ve never been in this kind of financial situation and might never have had to ask for help in paying their bills,” said Hal D. Snyder, vice president of customer solutions at SoCalGas.  “We want our community to know that we are here to help.”

        In addition to information booths where consumers can learn about and sign-up for assistance programs, families can enjoy music, food, prizes and fun.  Customers should bring their utility bill with them for better assistance.  For more information, visit The Gas Company’s Web site at www.socalgas.com/wecare, or call (800) 427-2200.

        Southern California Gas Co. has been delivering clean, safe and reliable natural gas to its customers for more than 140 years.  It is the nation’s largest natural gas distribution utility, providing safe and reliable energy to 20.5 million consumers through 5.7 million meters in more than 500 communities.  The company’s service territory encompasses approximately 20,000 square miles in diverse terrain throughout Central and Southern California, from Visalia to the Mexican border.  The Gas Company is a regulated subsidiary of Sempra Energy (NYSE: SRE).  Sempra Energy, based in San Diego, is a Fortune 500 energy services holding company.

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