Georgia's Energy Assistance Program Opens | News

Extra help is available from Georgia's Energy Assistance Program to those who meet minimum, need-based qualifications.

The first phase of Georgia's regular Energy Assistance Program opened Tuesday to assist homebound citizens and elderly households (65 years of age and over) pay their home heating costs.

The one-time payments average about $345 per household, and can go toward paying for gas, electricity, wood, coal, or kerosene heating.

The money goes directly to the power company or other energy supplier.

If funds remain available, other households who meet certain income criteria can apply for the program starting December 1.

The criteria is an income equal to or less than 60 percent of state median income guidelines.

That's $21,504 for a one person home, $28,116 for two people, $34,728 for three, $41,340 for four people, $47,964 for five people, $54,576 for six people, $55,812 for seven people, or $57,060 for eight people.

Households whose fuel cost are included in their rent are ineligible for the program.

Anyone interested in the program can contact their local Community Service Centers to make an evaluation appointment.

Community Service Center Phone Numbers

Bleckley and Pulaski Counties- (478) 783-1013 or (478) 892-2244

Dodge County- (478) 374-2261

Laurens and Treutlen Counties - (478) 275-0879 or (478) 275-0478

Telfair County (229) 868-5966

Montgomery and Wheeler Counties (912) 583-2163

Wilcox County (229) 365-0077