TRAVERSE CITY, MI -- It may feel like spring, but winter is just around the corner. For a lot of people, that means higher utility bills.

Organizations, like father fred, are already gearing up to help families stay warm this winter.

Father Fred said they have seen a 35% increase in clients this year seeking help paying for their gas and electric bills.

Father Fred works with love Inc. and the Department of Human Services to making sure they can help as many families as possible. On October 31, those organizations will hold a meeting to discuss how they can meet the community's utility needs.