Marquette BLP hosts first-ever 5K Fun Run to raise money for Generating Change

The Marquette Board of Light and power says they want to make sure everyone can afford to pay their electric bills. According to the BLP, one in three families struggle to pay their electric bills each month.

On Saturday they hosted their first-ever 5K Fun Run and Walk to raise money for their donation-driven Generating Change program.

Generating Change is designed to assist families who may need help covering the cost of their monthly bills.

"Helping neighbors, helping friends, helping one another is a goal here," said Tanya Laurin, Billing Clerk with the Marquette Board of Light and Power. "With this program, Generating Change, I feel that that's where we're headed. When you get into the nitty gritty of everything, everyone needs, whether they are comfortable enough to say that they are in need, that's what we're trying to do here."

Rachel Mager, Collections Clerk with BLP and Mary Adamini, Director of Personnel with BLP assisted in putting the 5K together.

Generating Change is a partnership with Salvation Army, who collected donations and canned goods.

There are different ways to donate to Generating Change.

If interested you can contact the Marquette Board of Light and Power at (906) 228-0311. One time donations can be made over the phone.

Checks can be made out to:

Marquette Board of Light and Power with 'Generating Change' in the memo line. Monthly bills can also be rounded up to give to the program.

If you or someone you know needs assistance and would like more information on how to qualify for Generating Change applications can be picked up at the Marquette Salvation Army:

1009 W Baraga Ave

Marquette, MI 49855