Apply for cooling assistance beginning July 16

CITIZEN STAFF REPORT

PAINTSVILLE — The Big Sandy Area Community Action Program (BSACAP) has announced the enrollment period for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) Summer Subsidy Component will begin July 16 and run until Sept. 13 or until funds are exhausted.

LIHEAP’s Summer Subsidy Component is designed to help households offset summer cooling costs. The program operates on a first-come, first-served basis.

Eligible households with incomes not exceeding 150% of the Federal Poverty Guideline can receive a one-time benefit ranging from $50 to $250, depending on income levels and housing category. Benefits are paid directly to the household’s electric vendor.

Households must apply through their local outreach offices, located at:

• Martin County: 387 E. Main Street, Inez. Phone: (606) 298-3217.
• Floyd County: 60 Court Street, Allen. Phone: (606) 874-3595.
• Johnson County (Central Office): 230 Court Street, Paintsville. Phone: (606) 789-3641.
• Magoffin County: 131 Church Street, Salyersville. Phone: (606) 349-2217.
• Pike County: 478 Town Mountain Road, Pikeville. Phone: (606) 432-2775.

Applicants can also find more information and apply online at bsacap.org.

Applicants must provide the following documentation at the time of application:

• Proof of Social Security Number or Permanent Residence card (Green Card) for each household member.
• Proof of income from the previous month for all household members.
• The most current electric bill, a statement from the landlord if electricity is included in rent, or a statement from the utility company if participating in a pre-pay electric program.
• The account number and name on the account for the main heating fuel sources and electricity bill.

A disconnect notice or past due bill is not required to receive the Summer Subsidy. The benefit can be applied as a credit to the applicant’s utility account.

Assistance received during previous LIHEAP components does not affect a household’s eligibility.

Kentucky’s Community Action Agencies operate LIHEAP in partnership with Community Action Kentucky and the Kentucky Cabinet for Health and Family Services. Funding comes through a block grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. For more information about LIHEAP and to contact local Community Action agencies, visit Community Action Kentucky at CAPKY.org.

BSACAP is a nonprofit organization offering various services, including employment and training assistance, home weatherization and Head Start programs in Floyd, Johnson, Martin, Magoffin and Pike counties. To learn more about BSACAP programs, visit bsacap.org or call (606) 789-3641.