The impetus for the AssistOK partnership largely developed in response to winter weather events that have significantly impacted the power grid in much of Tulsa County, virtually closing down local municipalities, schools, workplaces, and social services. Homes going unheated during cold winter months have left many Tulsans in a dangerous environment, potentially exacerbated by the loss of wages while employers awaited the reinstatement of power and heat. In order to keep homes warm, Tulsans have overwhelmingly sought out basic needs organizations that provide utility bill assistance. These organizations’ utility bill assistance resources can become depleted quickly leaving many Tulsans literally out in the cold.

In response, Tulsa Community Foundation and its charitable program 501tech convened to develop a streamlined distribution of utility bill assistance to those in need should another winter weather event occur. Out of this convening came AssistOK, a consortium of basic needs organizations providing, not only utility bill assistance, but also rent assistance, food pantry, literacy services, and many other social service needs.