For a Fort Wayne-area family grappling with serious health challenges, an electrical problem at home became one more burden during an already difficult time.
Both husband and wife were dealing with significant medical issues. Adding to their stress and uncertainty were safety concerns involving the equipment that delivers power to their home.
Votaw Electric and I&M employees worked together to ensure a local family has power through a difficult time.
Reliable power wasn't just about keeping the lights on. It meant staying connected with loved ones, charging phones, powering essential medical devices and maintaining a sense of normalcy during an incredibly difficult time. As Indiana Michigan Power (I&M) worked with the family to address the issue, employees quickly recognized how urgent the situation had become.
"Out in the field, you see firsthand how much families depend on reliable power every day," said Brandon Kitt, meter electrician. "When we learned what this family was going through, we wanted to do everything we could to help restore power safely and provide some peace of mind."
As employees worked to find a solution, an inspection revealed that repairs were needed to equipment that safely delivers power to the home. Some of that work required specialized expertise from a local electrical contractor, leading another community partner to step in and help.
"When we learned what this family was going through, we knew we wanted to help," said Erik Harris, Votaw Electric project manager. "Working together with I&M, we were able to provide the equipment, complete the necessary repairs and restore safe, reliable power when it was needed most."
Votaw Electric donated labor and equipment needed for the repairs, while I&M provided additional equipment and completed the utility work necessary to restore power safely. Together, the teams were able to remove a major source of worry for a family already carrying more than their share of challenges. While the repairs restored power, the greater impact was the peace of mind they provided.
"Helping provide safe, reliable power is about more than the work we do each day. It's about supporting the communities we serve," said Amy Stephens, meter services supervisor. "Seeing I&M employees, Votaw Electric and others come together to help this family is a powerful reminder of what's possible when people put neighbors first."
Need Help with an Electrical Equipment Concern?
If you notice damage to your meter or the equipment that delivers power to your home, contact I&M at 1-800-311-4634 as soon as possible. The sooner we understand the situation, the sooner we can help explain your options and connect you with the resources needed to restore service safely.