A program that provides heating and energy assistance for low-income Missourians reports that it should have enough funding to meet its winter demand through December.
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program began accepting applications this week. The program provides either a one-time energy assistance payment or, as part of the Energy Crisis Intervention Program, up to $800 based on specific needs. Mindy Garrett is the Northeast Missouri Emergency Services Coordinator. She says assistance can come quickly to those in need.
“We have actually 30 days to process any application that is non-crisis" says Garett. "And on the crisis we just have to have the application processed before to alleviate the crisis. If someone’s already off we have 48 hours to process those applications.”
Anyone interested in the program can fill out an application and mail or drop it off at the nearest Missouri Community Action Agency. October is the month of open assistance for the elderly and disabled; other residents can apply on Nov. 1. Program organizers say there are sufficient funds available this year for Missourians, so residents are encouraged to apply only when they need relief. The program runs until March 31.