Washington, D.C. - Pepco has launched an emergency food drive seeking to help those feeling the financial strain of the recent federal government shutdown. We are asking our more than 2,000 workers in the Washington Metropolitan Area to contribute canned goods and other non-perishable items to ease the burden that local food banks have experienced over the past two weeks.

Employees are asked to bring canned goods and other non-perishable items to work through Friday. The Capital Area Food Bank and Catholic Charities will distribute the donations to those in need in our service area.

"Although the shutdown has ended, its impact has been felt and its lingering effects will continue to resonate in thousands of Washington area households," said Donna Cooper, president, Pepco Region. "Also, with the holidays fast approaching, charitable organizations face greater demands for their services. Our contributions will provide additional resources during these times."

Pepco also has payment programs for customers who may be experiencing financial conditions that make it difficult to keep their accounts current. Many of these arrangements can be made directly over the phone by calling (202) 833-7500 and following the simple instructions or through a customer service representative. Either way, Pepco is more than glad to provide help through difficult periods.

To save energy and money, customers can call Customer Service or visit our website at pepco.com/energy/conservation/ to learn more about programs to help pay for more energy-efficient products, simple steps they can take to conserve energy usage and how to monitor their energy consumption.

For more information and updates, visit www.pepco.com, follow us on Facebook and Twitter at PepcoConnect, and download our mobile app at www.pepco.com/mobileapp.