DHS opens program to help seniors with home heating bills
Beginning Nov. 1, residents ages 65 and older or who are housebound can apply for assistance through the Department of Human Services’ Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. All other eligible families may apply for assistance beginning Dec. 1.
The federally funded program assists low-income, elderly and disabled residents with heating bills through direct payments to home energy suppliers. Funds are administered through local Community Action Agencies on a first-come, first-served basis through April 30, 2014, or until all funds are exhausted.
Depending on income and household size, those who qualify for the program will receive between $310 and $350 toward their home heating bills.
For example, 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 household of one, the income threshold is $21,029; the income threshold for a household of five is $46,912.
Those seeking assistance must contact their local Community Action Agencies. All applicants will be asked to provide their most recent heating bill or statement of service from their heating providers, as well as the following information on every member of their household: social security numbers, proof of citizenship and proof of income for the last 30 days. Proof of income can include, but is not limited to, a paycheck stub, a letter granting public assistance, Social Security or unemployment benefits.
