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October 30, 2006
NAPERVILLE – Nicor Gas today announced it will partner with Jewel-Osco for the second year in a row to help customers in need stay warm this winter heating season. By shopping at any Jewel-Osco store in the months of October and November on dates listed below, customers can have five percent of their purchases donated to Nicor Gas Sharing; a program dedicated to providing financial assistance to low- and fixed-income customers.
All shoppers have to do is present the Shop & Share coupon to the cashiers at check-out counter on any of the following dates below. The coupon is available on the company’s Web site at www.nicorgas.com and was also included in October issue of Nicor Gas’ customer newsletter, Energy Spotlight.
Shop and present the Shop & Share coupon on these days and 5% is donated by
Jewel-Osco to help a needy family stay warm this winter:
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Mon., October 30 thru Wed., November 1
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Mon., November 6 thru Wed., November 8
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Mon., November 13 thru Wed., November 15
“We thank Jewel-Osco for partnering with Nicor Gas on such an important initiative. The shopping days are a simple way to lend a hand to those who may be experiencing a hardship,” said Julian Brown, manager of corporate contributions for Nicor Gas. “There are customers who do not qualify for government assistance, but due to their income level or a recent misfortune, such as a job loss or change in family status, will need help paying their heating bills this winter and Nicor Gas’ Sharing Program will be there for them,” said Brown.
The Sharing program is administered by the Salvation Army and is made up of contributions from Nicor customers and employees that are matched up to $175,000 annually by Nicor Gas. To help qualifying applicants a little more this year, the company increased grant amounts. Now with the grant and matching grant opportunity, an eligible customer can receive up to $400, and customers over age 65 or who are disabled can receive up to $450 (last year both opportunities offered a maximum $300).
Eligible customers include those who currently earn between 150 and 200 percent of the federal poverty level; elements of the Sharing Program differ depending on age.
“The Nicor Sharing Program is another venue customers in need can turn to for help during the winter heating season,” said Brown. Over the past 20 years, Nicor Gas’ Sharing Program has provided more than $12 million to help over 70,000 of its customers.
Nicor Gas is one of the nation's largest gas distribution companies. Owned by Nicor Inc. (NYSE: GAS) a holding company, Nicor Gas has provided safe and reliable natural gas services for more than 50 years. The Company serves more than 2.1 million customers in a service territory that encompasses most of the northern third of Illinois, excluding the city of Chicago. For more information, visit the Nicor Web site at www.nicorgas.com. | 
