Assistance with utility bills available

Posted 1/1/20

Cold temperatures and humidity often mean high utility bills. For those living on limited income this burden can be major.

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Assistance with utility bills available

Posted

Cold temperatures and humidity often mean high utility bills. For those living on limited income this burden can be major.

Families may qualify for assistance through federal LIHEAP funding. Assistance may occur multiple months depending on eligibility. The program targets elderly, disabled and the working poor.

Greater East Texas Community Action Program administers the program in Wood and surrounding counties. Eligibility is based on household income, citizenship and circumstances.   

Individuals may apply by mail or online. The website is www.get-cap.org.

A face-to-face interview is not required if the individual will provide a copy of the required information. To schedule a face-to-face appointment at the local office call 936-720-7474.

Many people struggle to come for an appointment. When the information is mailed or done online, that individual is contacted by phone, and the case can often be completed a face-to-meeting.

According to local Case Manager Shelia Dutton, “The requirements are the same and the assistance is the same. Face-to-face appointments usually take longer to schedule. We are making a special effort to reach people who have never applied.”      

Karen Swenson, executive director, explained “We want people to apply now before the high bills start arriving. Individuals do not have to come back in if they qualify for more than one month of help. Wait times for assistance will be longer as high bills start to arrive. For many elderly or disabled individuals this help is significant “ 

Targeted groups include low income elderly, disabled and families with young children.

For more information visit www.get-cap.org or call 800-621-5746. Certain days may have a high call volume so multiple attempts may be needed.