The federally funded Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) helps low-income families and seniors on fixed incomes pay utility bills – during both the cold winter months and in the summer, when utility bills can climb due to the summer heat. In Morgan, Cullman and Lawrence counties, LIHEAP funds are distributed by Community Action Partnership of North Alabama. In 2014, Community Action assisted 159 HU customers in paying their utility bills.
“Assistance programs administered by Community Action can be a lifeline to someone on a fixed income during winter and summer temperature extremes,” explains HU Customer Service Manager Terri Harris.
Unfortunately, LIHEAP’s federal funding is not enough to help everyone who needs assistance, and some families with emergency situations may fall out of the program’s income cap. Community and donation-funded programs, such as Operation Warm, help to bridge that gap. Last year, HU customers donated $2,728.10 to Operation Warm; 100 percent of the money donated is used to help people in Hartselle.
Eligible households can receive assistance from Community Action up to twice each year. If you or someone you know needs emergency assistance with a utility bill, you can apply for help from Community Action by calling (256) 260-4050 or making an appointment online at www.northalabamacommunities.org.