Heat the Streets Run & Walk for Warmth celebrates 20 years of bringing warmth to families in need

Omaha Public Power District and Metropolitan Utilities District are joining forces for the 20th annual Heat the Streets Run & Walk for Warmth, a community tradition that, for two decades, has brought people together to support local families facing utility hardship.  

Registration opens Oct. 1 for the annual fundraiser, which raises money to help local families keep their homes safe, warm and connected.  

The community event will take place Saturday, March 6, 2027, at Stinson Park in Aksarben Village, 2285 S. 67th Street, Omaha. 

This year’s event is co-chaired by Jim Begley, M.U.D. Board Director, and his wife, Rebecca Begley; and John Hudson, OPPD Board Director, and his wife Carolyn Hudson.  

For 20 years, Heat the Streets has helped shine a light on the challenges families face when unexpected financial hardship makes it difficult to keep up with essential utility bills. The event is the largest fundraiser of the year for the utilities’ assistance programs. The 2026 event raised more than $277,000, benefiting approximately 825 households across both utilities' service territory.  

As Heat the Streets celebrates this milestone anniversary, the goal for the year ahead is to register at least 2,000 participants and raise at least $300,000 to support customers in Burt, Cass, Colfax, Dodge, Douglas, Johnson, Nemaha, Otoe, Pawnee, Richardson, Sarpy, Saunders and Washington counties.  

Fundraising is especially critical as decreasing federal support for utility assistance programs has placed additional pressure on local resources. Many families are navigating a time of financial uncertainty, and these programs serve as an essential safety net for those working hard to stay afloat.  

The event is hosted during the winter to highlight the very real struggle many face to keep their homes warm, but the need extends far beyond the cold months. Unexpected challenges—a job loss, medical emergency or even necessary car repairs—can quickly become overwhelming for households living paycheck to paycheck. Community support matters. Even a small contribution can provide stability, relief and hope for a family working to get through a difficult time.  

 All funds raised are administered by Dollar Energy Fund Inc., a registered 501(c)(3), with 100% of funds being allocated to M.U.D.’s Home Fund and OPPD’s Energy Assistance Program.  

Registration opens Oct. 1. Participants can choose from the options below, saving up to $10 off registration through Dec. 31.  

Timed 10K   

• $40 (Oct. 1 through Dec. 31) 
• $50 (Jan. 1 through March 3) 
• $55 (Day-of registration)  

Timed 5K  

• $35 (Oct. 1 through Dec. 31)
• $45 (Jan. 1 through March 3) 
• $55 (Day-of registration)  

Two-mile walk   

Children 12 and under may register for free with a registered adult.  

• $30 (Oct. 1 through Dec. 31) 
• $35 (Jan. 1 through March 3) 
• $45 (Day-of registration)  

Virtual run/walk  

Participants may complete a distance of their choice on the path of their choice, such as a treadmill, in their neighborhoods or a local trail. No swag/giveaways will be given to virtual registrants. 

• $35 (Oct. 1 through March 3)  

You do not have to participate in the run or walk to make a meaningful impact. Visit HeatTheStreetsOmaha.org to donate or explore sponsorship opportunities.   

Customers who are struggling with their bills can call their customer service representatives and talk through their options. For OPPD, that number is 402-536-4131 in the Omaha area. Outside of the metro, customers may call toll-free at 877-536-4131. M.U.D. customers should call 402-554-6666.