Special to the Herald

ATLANTA -- Eligible residents may begin applying for cooling assistance through the Georgia Department of Human Services’ (DHS) Division of Family & Children Services (DFCS) Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). This program assists low-income, elderly, and disabled Georgians with cooling costs through direct payments to home energy suppliers.
To qualify, a family’s annual income must be less than or equal to 60% of the median income for a Georgia family. For a household of one, the income threshold is $33,038, and for a household of five, the income threshold is $73,700. Individuals ages 65 years and older and the medically homebound may apply now. All other Georgians who wish to apply can do so beginning May 1.
Funds are administered through local Community Action Agencies on a first-come, first-served basis until all funds are exhausted. 
To apply for cooling assistance, Georgians should contact their local Community Action Agency (CAA) to determine how the program will accept applications. All applicants should be prepared to provide the following information:

·       Most recent cooling bill or statement of service from their energy provider

·       Social Security numbers for each household member

·       Proof of citizenship for each household member 

·       Proof of income (e.g., paycheck stub or a public assistance verification letter) for the last 30 days for each adult household member 

·       Verification of Social Security or unemployment benefits for all applicable household members

For more information on LIHEAP, click on this link: bit.ly/42sWyEt or call 404-657-3426. To find a CAA in your area, click on www.georgiacaa.org.