Staff Report /

**Indiana Ranks Third in U.S. for Utility Shut-Off Rates, Black Households in Marion County Face High Energy Burden**

Indiana ranks third highest among U.S. states for utility shut-off rates, according to information from the Indiana Department of Environmental Management and the Journal of Public and Environmental Affairs. The data highlights that residents across the state are facing significant challenges when it comes to energy costs.

In Indianapolis and Marion County, Black households experience energy burdens 64% greater than the national average. Energy burden refers to the percentage of household income spent on energy costs, and high energy burdens disproportionately affect low-income and minority communities. These residents are also facing increased risks from pollution and climate impacts, which exacerbate existing economic and social vulnerabilities.

The Indianapolis Foundation has recognized these issues and outlined actions in its "Equity Imperative 2030" strategic plan. The foundation is focused on championing environmental equity by addressing historic inequities, improving access to clean energy, supporting community justice, and enhancing infrastructure in impacted areas throughout Marion County.

Environmental justice aims to ensure that everyone enjoys equal protection from environmental hazards while living, working, and studying in healthy environments. The foundation remains committed to reducing disproportionate environmental impacts, such as high energy costs and pollution, on vulnerable communities in Marion County.

For more information on their five-year strategic plan, visit the Indianapolis Foundation website.

Source: Indianapolis Foundation

Source Type: Community

Source Location: Indianapolis

Ocala, FL

Tickets Released for 2026 Indianapolis Homelessness Event

CHIP Indianapolis announced that tickets are now available for the 2026 CHIP State of Homelessness: Indianapolis. The event will be presented by Anthem Blue Cross and Blue Shield and will include a new panel with community Q&A.

Ocala firefighters nominated for Valor Award for life saved

Ocala Fire Rescue said several members received a News/Talk 97.3 THE SKY nomination for a Valor Award tied to a call where a life was saved. The nomination page is on Audacy.

Ocala Fire Rescue Wishes Happy Father’s Day

Ocala Fire Rescue posted a Father's Day message wishing a happy and safe holiday. The post addressed dads among its ranks and the broader community.

Ocala to Feature Food Trucks for July Fourth

The City of Ocala Municipal Government posted a lineup of food trucks for its July Fourth event. The city said multiple vendors will be on-site, including Chick-fil-A and several local food trucks.

Frank DeLuca YMCA Highlights Lifeguard Training

The Frank DeLuca YMCA in Ocala, Florida says its lifeguards train through hands-on practice and emergency response drills. The YMCA also says people can join or upgrade to a Max Membership for pool and water access at YMCA of Central Florida locations.

YMCA of Central Florida hosts Father's Day Bingo

The YMCA of Central Florida invited people to play “Father’s Day Bingo” and asked how many squares dads can check off today. The post also said the YMCA and Father’s Day share history dating back more than a century.

Ocala Chamber Highlights AI Workshop and Horse Fever Giveaway

The Ocala Metro Chamber and Economic Partnership posted details from a local AI marketing workshop at the World Equestrian Center - Ocala. The post also promotes a giveaway tied to the 25th anniversary of horse fever in Marion County.

Ocala offers Flow Fusion Yoga at community center

Ocala Recreation and Parks is offering a free Flow Fusion Yoga class for adults 18 and older. The class runs Mondays year-round from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. at the Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place.

Ocala NERF Challenge Set for Saturday

Ocala Recreation and Parks is hosting a NERF Challenge on Saturday, June 20, from 10 a.m. to noon. The event is for kids ages 5-12 at the Mary Sue Rich Community Center at Reed Place.

Marion County library shares Florida history Father’s Day post

The Marion County Public Library System in Ocala shared a Father’s Day message described as a love letter to fathers from Florida history. The post thanked the State Archives of Florida and wished dads a Happy Father’s Day.