Millions of American families are struggling to afford energy as prices have soared over the past year, leaving many facing shut-offs and mounting debt. Kristy Hallowell, a 44-year-old resident of Greenwood Lake, New York, experienced firsthand the severity of the crisis when her energy bill unexpectedly tripled to $1,800 a month after she lost her job. Unable to pay, her gas and electricity were cut off, forcing her, her two children, and her mother to rely on a generator for six months to power and heat their home.

Hallowell's electricity has since been restored after a local non-profit helped negotiate a partial payment agreement with the utility company. However, her gas remains disconnected, and she continues to struggle with rising electricity bills this winter, fearing another shut-off. She currently faces approximately $3,000 in utility debt. "This has been traumatic, to say the least," Hallowell said.

According to a recent report, nearly one in 20 households in the U.S. are at risk of having their utility debt sent to collections as winter approaches. The rising energy costs are attributed to a combination of factors, including increased demand, supply chain disruptions, and geopolitical instability impacting global energy markets. Utility companies are facing increased pressure to balance affordability for consumers with the need to maintain infrastructure and invest in renewable energy sources.

The situation is particularly challenging for low-income families and those who have recently lost their jobs, as they often lack the financial resources to absorb the increased energy costs. Government assistance programs and non-profit organizations are working to provide support, but the demand for assistance is exceeding available resources. The long-term impact of the energy crisis on American families remains uncertain, but it is clear that many households will continue to struggle with affordability in the coming months.