Power Up Generator program shines during outages

EDINBURG, Texas (ValleyCentral) — The Hidalgo County Community Service Agency's "Power Up Generator" (PUG) program came through on Sunday during the power outages that affected about 12,000 customers throughout Hidalgo County.

According to a county news release, the agency's program helped at least three residents whose lives depend on reliable power.

The Power Up Generator or PUG program provides generators for those with medical necessities and are given by the Hidalgo County Fire Marshal’s Office.

“This is what we are in business for,” said Hidalgo County Judge Richard F. Cortez.

The power outage that occurred in different locations throughout Hidalgo County on Sunday was blamed on a series of fires that broke out on utility poles that carry lines transmitting electricity, according to the county.

A survey of 25 PUG participants said the generators helped to sustain the flow of oxygen that they needed to supplement their breathing. Currently, there are 70 Hidalgo County families participating in this program.

To learn more about the PUG program, please contact the Hidalgo County Community Service Agency at (956) 383-6240.