Georgia residents who are low income, elderly or disabled may apply for cooling costs assistance through the Division of Family and Children Service's Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program beginning May 1, a news release states.
The federally funded program makes direct payments to home energy suppliers. Eligible households will receive between $350 and $400 toward their energy costs.
To qualify, a family's annual income must be less than or equal to 60 percent of the median income for a Georgia family. For a one-person household, that income threshold is $22,839. The income threshold for a household of five is $50,948, according to teh news release.
Funds are administered through local Georgia Community Action Agencies. To find a Community Action Agency in your area, visit http://www.georgiacaa.org. Interested persons should contact their local agency to find out how the program will accept applications and if anyone will receive priority service.
Applications will be taken starting May 1, and applicants will be asked to provide the following:
- The most recent cooling bill or statement of service from their heating providers
- Their most recent heating bill or statement of service
- Social Security cards for each member of the household
- Proof of citizenship for the applicant
- Proof of income for the last 30 days for each adult member of the household. Proof of income can include, but is not limited to, a paycheck stub or public assistance verification letter.
- Verification of Social Security or unemployment benefits for all applicable household members
For more information on the program, call the Georgia Division of Family and Children Services at 404-657-3426.