The coordinator of the George Wiley Center in Pawtucket estimated that about 10,000 Rhode Island families had lost gas or electric service because of non-payment so far this year. He said that the rate increase, which took effect across the state this week, will have a significant impact on heating assistance programs such as Bishop Tobin's "Keep the Heat On" challenge. The implications for home heating this winter, particularly for those below the poverty line, could be dire.

See full article in RI Catholic.