Event helps residents pay energy bills

CHICAGO (WLS) -- Residents who need help paying their heating bills received assistance and some free products on Saturday during an event on the city's West Side.

The annual winter resource fair gave away boxes of energy efficient light bulbs and taught participants how they could lower, or completely eliminate their energy bill.

Millions of dollars in financial assistance is available for those who qualify.

U.S. Rep. Danny Davis, D-Chicago, hosted the event and said it's important for people who need the help to come forward.

"If people don't come forward we will lose the funding for this program," Davis said.

Anyone who needs help paying a gas or electric bill can call 800-571-2332.