Some $124.5 million dollars in federal stimulus funds are to be distributed to the elderly and to low-income Georgians this year for weatherization home repairs. The program began Nov. 1 and is administered by the Georgia Environmental Facilities Authority (GEFA).  

These funds will be administered mostly by Community Action Agencies across the state.  Phone numbers and contact numbers are available at www.gefa.org under the “Programs and Activities” tab.

Criteria for weatherization assistance is limited to persons identified by the 2000 census as low income not exceeding 200 percent of the federal poverty level. For example, a senior citizen living alone can earn up to $21,600 annually and still be eligible and a family of four having an annual income limit of up to $44,100 is eligible. Priority for those qualified is given to elderly, disabled, households with children, and households with high energy costs.

Energy assistance
The Department of Human Services will once again help struggling Georgians keep up with the cost of heating their homes by administering the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) which will receive approximately $65.4 million in federal funds to help eligible families, elderly and disabled Georgians pay high energy bills.   

Energy Assistance is also based on the 2000 census level of 200 percent of poverty that ranges in income for a family of one with a monthly income of up to $1,800 or a family of four with a monthly income of up to $3,675. Applicants must be U.S. citizens or legally admitted aliens and must be the person responsible for paying the cost of energy in the household. Top priority is for age 65 or older, homebound and those with life-threatening circumstances.

Applicants must present their most recent fuel bill or statement of service from their heating provider and a 30 day proof of income by check stub or letter of benefits. Assistance will be offered on a first-come, first-serve basis. The program will close on April 30, 2010, or when funds are exhausted.

The payment assistance for both home-owner and non-subsidized renters will be $350 as long as funds are available. Subsidized renters whose fuel costs are included in their rental payment are also eligible. If funds are not available upon application, a waiting list will be established.

For more information, call 1-800-869-1150 or go to http://dfcs.dhr.georgia.gov to find the local Community Action Agency nearest you or to receive additional information regarding the LIHEAP program in Georgia.

I may be reached at
234 State Capitol, Atlanta, GA 30334
(404) 656-5038 (phone)
(404) 657-7094 (fax)
E-mail at Jack.Hill@senate.ga.gov
Or call toll-free at
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