Emergency help is now available for winter's home heating bills

The Department of Human Resources has announced $1.6 million in emergency contingency funds to help low-income families meet home energy costs. The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funds will provide households across the state with heating assistance for the winter months ahead. The federally funded program helps more than 80,000 eligible Georgia families with heating and cooling assistance each year.

The maximum payment for qualifying applicants is $250. Funds will be distributed on first-come firstserved basis. Individuals must apply at the community action agency that serves their in county. Applicants can call 800-869-1150 or visit http:// gcaaonline.org to locate the nearest community action agency in their area.

To qualify for the LIHEAP program applicants must have a yearly household income that meets federal poverty guidelines. For a oneperson household, that would be $15,315; for two people $20,535; for three people $25,755; for four people $30,975; for five people $36,195; for six people $41,415; for seven people $46,635; for eight people $51,855; and for each additional person, add $5,220 in household income.

Applicants must provide a copy of their most recent heating bill or a statement of service from their heating provider. They must also provide proof of household income for the last 30 days, such as a pay stub or letter from an employer. Applicants are required to have a valid Social Security number for all household members. Those who have a need are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

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