DHR Opens Its Energy Assistance Program To Help Georgians With Their Home Heating Bills

November 26, 2003

ATLANTA (GA) – Cold weather has finally arrived in Georgia and December 1 is the date on which those eligible for assistance with their heating costs may apply for help through the State of Georgia’s Department of Human Resources (DHR) Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).   The program has received approximately $17.9 million in federal funds and is using $2.8 million in Public Service Commission Universal Service Funds to assist low-income, elderly and disabled Georgians with their heating bills.  The elderly and homebound were able to apply beginning on November 3. 

“This program makes a real difference in the lives of Georgia's neediest citizens by assisting them with their heating bill," says Governor Sonny Perdue.

Local community action agencies administer all available funds under state contracts and payments are made directly to the home energy supplier, in most cases, for gas, electricity, propane gas, wood, coal or kerosene.  Qualifying applicants will receive payments of either $174 or $220.

To participate in the program, the family must meet a yearly income equal to or less than 150% of the federal poverty guidelines.  For a one-person household, that would be $13,470; for two people $18,180; for three people $22, 890; for four people $27,600; for five people 32,310; for six people $37,020; for seven people $41,730; for eight people $46,440, for each additional person add $4,710 annual income.

To qualify, applicants must bring their most recent fuel bill or statement of service from their heating provider.  They also must have proof of income for all household members for the last thirty days.  This may be a paycheck stub, a letter granting public assistance, Social Security or unemployment benefits.  Applicants must also have the social security numbers of all household members.

Help will be provided on a first-come first serve basis until the funds are exhausted.  For more information, contact the Division of Family and Children Services’ Community Services Section at 404-656-2323 in metro Atlanta, or toll free at 1-800-869-1150.

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For additional media information:
Connie Sumpter
404-656-4937
clsumpter@dhr.state.ga.us