Since 2011, ENMAX has been a committed partner of Distress Centre Calgary, and their work supporting Calgarians facing challenging circumstances. Through this longstanding collaboration, ENMAX has provided funding, resources, and volunteer support to help individuals and families in need.

ENMAX contributes annually to Distress Centre’s Basic Needs Fund, providing emergency financial assistance to families in crisis, while also sponsoring the Centre’s annual volunteer appreciation event, recognizing those who provide vital crisis support. In addition, as part of its annual employee giving program, ENMAX double-matches employee donations to energy affordability partners, including Distress Centre Calgary.

To date, ENMAX has invested more than $1 million in supporting Distress Centre’s critical work.

“On behalf of the entire team at Distress Centre, I want to extend our deepest gratitude to ENMAX for their incredible generosity over the past 14 years,” said Robyn Romano, CEO, Distress Centre. “The support has made a significant impact, from funding our Basic Needs Fund, to sponsoring our cherished annual volunteer appreciation event. We are truly grateful for this meaningful and enduring partnership.”

Romano also acknowledged ENMAX team members going the extra mile to provide snack bags and special treats that bring joy to their dedicated volunteers as they respond to crisis calls, chats, and texts. Most recently ENMAX team members raised over $1,800 for the Basic Needs Fund through a Valentine’s Day candygram event.

ENMAX’s commitment to energy affordability

By working with affordability partners, ENMAX helps bridge the gap for individuals and families who may be struggling to meet their basic needs.

“We believe that access to reliable and affordable energy is essential to maintaining a safe and stable life,” said Krista Moroz, Manager, Community Impact. “That’s why we partner with organizations like Distress Centre Calgary to provide assistance to those facing financial difficulties. Energy affordability is not just about paying utility bills—it’s about ensuring that people can stay warm in the winter, cook meals for their families, and live with dignity.”

The ENMAX Customer Care team plays an important role in connecting vulnerable customers with Distress Centre’s 24/7 Crisis Line and 211 service, ensuring they can access immediate support and navigate underlying challenges.

The growing need for support

The demand for crisis supports in Calgary remains high. In 2024 alone, Distress Centre Calgary responded to:

• 59,000 calls, texts, and chats to their 211 information and navigation service.
• 50,000 crisis calls, chats, and texts through their crisis lines.
• 320 individuals who received emergency assistance through the Basic Needs Fund.

As the need for crisis support continues to grow, ENMAX remains committed to helping ensure Calgarians have access to the resources they need during difficult times. Calgarians in need of support are encouraged to contact 211. Customers can also find access to advice, billing options and energy efficiency resources at enmax.com/affordability.