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LIHEAP is federal money given to each state to assist low-income families with energy costs. In Michigan, the LIHEAP block grant is used for the following programs:

• Home Heating Credit
• State Emergency Relief (SER)
• Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

Home Heating Credit

The Home Heating Credit is available to all low-income households. The Michigan Department of Treasury determines eligibility and makes the payments. You do not need to file a state income tax return to receive the Home Heating Credit. You may apply for the Home Heating Credit only. Eligibility is based on income, number of exemptions and household heating costs.

Application forms are available from the Department of Treasury, local Department of Human Services offices and anywhere Michigan tax return forms are available. Forms are automatically mailed to households who received a credit last year. Applications are available from mid to late January and may be made through September 30 of each year.

Request a Home Heating Credit Claim form (MI-1040CR-7) from the list of forms on the Michigan Department of Treasury website or for more information go to the Energy Assistance Programs Home Heating Creditweb site.

State Emergency Relief (SER)

The State Emergency Relief (SER) program is administered by the Department of Human Services (DHS). An application is needed to request assistance and an appointment is generally required. To apply, please contact the  local DHS office in the county in which you reside.

SER is a crisis intervention program and provides services such as payment for heating fuel, electricity and home repairs. Eligibility is based on:

• demonstration of immediate need (shut off notice), or
• declared need for a deliverable fuel such as fuel oil, or
• verified need for energy related home repair, and
• income, and
• assets.

SER Payments

•  
• Heating fuel has an annual maximum of $550 to $1,100 depending on the fuel type. The maximum payment may change based on available funding.
• State Energy-related home repairs have a $4,000 lifetime limit per household.
• Heat, Electric and home repairs are only issued to enrolled LIHEAP providers. The enrollment form is the DHS-355, Energy Supplier Participation Agreement.

Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP)

Michigan's Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) is a federally funded, low-income residential energy conservation program. The program provides free home energy conservation services to low-income Michigan homeowners and renters. These services reduce energy use and lower utility bills, thus creating more self-sufficient households. Services are typically administered by local Community Action Agencies and include:

• Wall Insulation
• Attic Insulation and Ventilation
• Foundation Insulation
• Air Leakage Reduction
• Smoke Detectors
• Dryer Venting

For more information on LIHEAP, call the toll free DHS Energy Hotline at 1-800-292-5650 between the hours of 8:00 am - 4:45 pm Monday through Friday.

For more about Energy Assistance Programs click on the button below.

The State Emergency Relief (SER) program provides a wide range of non-energy and energy-related emergency services. The cost for SER energy services is covered with LIHEAP, state and other federal funds. Services are provided year round.

The SER program is administered by the Department of Human Services (DHS). An application is needed to request assistance and an appointment is generally required. To apply, please contact theDHS office in your area.

What are the eligibility criteria for SER?

Eligibility for SER energy services is based on the household's demonstration of immediate need for assistance with home heating fuel, electricity, or energy-related home repairs. Immediate need may be demonstrated by a declared need for a deliverable fuel such as fuel oil, L.P. gas, wood and coal, presentation of a shut-off notice for natural gas or electricity or a verified need for an energy-related home repair of a home owned or being purchased.

In addition to immediate need, SER energy services eligibility is based on income to be received in the 30-day period following application. All households will have their income compared to the SER Income Need Standard established to cover shelter, heat, utilities, personal and incidental needs. The SER Income Need Standard for all family sizes is below 60% of the state's median income.

The SER Income Need Standard is as follows:

An asset test is also applied to applicant households. Cash assets available at the time of application will be counted when determining eligibility. $50.00 of cash assets is exempt. Any amount in excess of $50.00 must be used toward the requested need.

What are the payment levels?

SER energy services covered by LIHEAP include:

• Heating Fuel: Payment is provided for any type of fuel used to heat the dwelling unit up to an annual maximum as follows:

  • $550 for households which heat with natural gas or wood.

  • $850 for households which heat with deliverable fuel other than wood (fuel oil, propane, coal, etc.).

  • $1,100 for household which are all-electric (including heat).

• Electricity: Payment is provided for electricity needed to operate the heating system or to provide energy to the dwelling unit to make it livable, up to an annual maximum of $550 per household.

• Home Repairs: Payment for energy-related home repairs is the minimum necessary to maintain a decent, safe, warm dwelling unit. The lifetime maximum is $4,000. Exceptions may be granted for unique and unusual circumstances.

How are payments made?

Payment for heating fuel or electricity is made to prevent shut-off or to restore the service when it is essential to prevent serious harm. Payment is the minimum amount necessary to prevent shut-off or to restore service and may include connection or hook-up fees which will not be waived by the provider. Payment in excess of the maximums may be made on an exception basis.

Payments for SER energy services are made within 30 working days of receipt of the authorization/invoice from the provider. However, emergency situations are most often resolved within 48 hours after eligibility is determined or within 18 hours if the situation is life-threatening.

Payments are made directly to the heating fuel, electricity or home repair provider whenever possible.

Where can you obtain an application for SER?

• Local DHS offices

• DHS Public Web site- Forms & Applications

• Community-based organizations

SER can help low-income households with other emergency needs.

The State Emergency Relief (SER) Program provides immediate help to individuals and families facing conditions of extreme hardship or for emergencies that threaten health and safety. Through a combination of direct financial assistance and contracts with a network of non-profit organizations such as the Salvation Army and local Community Action Organizations, SER helps low-income households meet emergency needs such as:

• Heat & Utilities
• Home Repairs
• Relocation Assistance
• Home Ownership Services
• Burial

Go to the Department of Human Services Emergency Services Web site for more information.

Did you know that if you are having trouble affording your utility bills, there are many options for help?

• Comfort Partners
  This Program is designed to improve energy affordability for income eligible households through direct installation of free energy efficiency measures and education about steps everyone can take to save energy. Participants are asked to partner with the program to develop and carry out a household energy savings Action Plan.
  For more information please call 1-888-773-8326 or click here.
   
• LIHEAP
  This program, which is administered by the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, helps you pay for heating costs and may cover certain medically-necessary cooling expenses. Even if your heat is included in your rent, you may qualify, if you meet the eligibility criteria. You may submit an application for LIHEAP from November 1^st, through April 30^th.
  
  For more information, please call 1-800-510-3102 or click here
   
• Universal Service Fund-Energy
  The State of New Jersey created the Universal Service Fund (USF), administered by the Department of Community Affairs (DCA), was created by the Board of Public Utilities (BPU) to help make energy bills more affordable for qualifying households whose annual household income is at or below 175% of the Federal Poverty Level (FPL).  The program was designed so that households most in need receive the highest benefit by using a percentage of income formula.  Benefits appear as a credit on the household electric and/or gas bill (capped at $1,800 per year).
  • Fresh Start: Fresh Start, a special program under USF, allows eligible New Jersey households participating in USF for the first time to earn forgiveness for pre-existing arrearages by making full, on-time payments for 12 months. 
  
  For more information about USF, please go to www.energyassistance.nj.gov or call toll free at: 1-866-240-1347
  
• Winter Termination Program
  Administered by the BPU, the Winter Termination Program (WTP) protects specific categories of customers from having their gas or electric shut off between November 15^th and March 15th.   Those enrolled in specific programs (such as SSI, Temporary Assistance to Needy Families, USF and Lifeline) are protected by WTP, and an additional “catch-all” category is included for people unable to pay their utility bills because of circumstances beyond their control such as unemployment or illness
  
  For more information on the Winter Termination Program, please call 1-800-624-0241.
   
• Lifeline Program
  Lifeline is administered by the Department of Health and Senior Services, provides a $225 energy benefit to seniors and the disabled who meet the PAAD eligibility requirements or who receive SSI.  The benefit is also available to customers who have electric and gas costs included in their rent.  
  For more information about Lifeline, please call 1-800-792-9745.
   
• NJSHARES
  NJ SHARES is a non-profit corporation that provides assistance to individuals and families living in New Jersey who are in need of temporary help in paying their energy bills. To qualify for NJ SHARES, a person or family must be facing a financial crisis and not be eligible for welfare or other income-based energy assistance programs. Recipients must also have a history of good-faith payments of their utility bills. Applications for NJ SHARES grants can be made at any of the more than 150 participating social service agencies throughout the state. Upon approval, recipients may receive a one-time grant of up to $700 for gas and up to $300 for electric (or up to $700 for an all-electric home). 
  
  Please call NJSHARES at 1-866-657-4273 or visit them at www.njshares.org 
  
   
• Telephone Assistance
  Telephone assistance programs provide a discount on your monthly bill and/or provide a reduction in installation (hook-up) fees. Eligibility is determined based on your income or participation in other assistance programs. In general, if you participate in any of the following programs you also may qualify for telephone assistance: Supplemental Security Income (SSI), Temporary Assistance to Needy Families/Work First New Jersey (TANF), General Assistance, Lifeline Utility Credit/Tenants Lifeline Assistance, Pharmaceutical Assistance to the Aged and Disabled (PAAD), Food Stamp Program, Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP/HEAP), Medicaid.
  
  Telephone assistance is available to you if you are a qualified residential telephone customer. The federal government sponsors two programs, namely Lifeline and Link-Up.
  Lifeline provides you with a discount to your monthly bill that could be as much as $16.29 depending on your local telephone company.
  Link-Up provides a 50 percent reduction in the initial telephone connection charges (up to $30.00).
  
  In order to be eligible for any of these assistance programs, you must either participate in one of the qualifying programs specified by each plan or your income must meet certain criteria. When you are seeking telephone assistance, please keep in mind that each telephone company and/or each program has different eligibility requirements, different benefits available and different restrictions. Some programs have restrictions on the optional services available to participants.

  
  The following list of telephone service providers participate in Lifeline Assistance and Link Up programs in New Jersey: Embarq/United Telephone Company of NJ, Inc., Verizon New Jersey Inc, and Warwick Valley Telephone Company.
  
  If you are a Verizon New Jersey customer, please call NJSHARES at 1-888-337-3339 or visit them at NJSHARES for more information.

  
  If you are a customer of Embarq/United Telephone Company of New Jersey or Warwick Valley Telephone Company please contact your local telephone company to participate in their program.
  
  

   

• NJ EASE
   

  NJ EASE (New Jersey Easy Access, Single Entry) is the easy way for seniors and their families to get information about and access senior services.
  
  NJ EASE is one toll-free telephone number to put you in touch with someone to help you learn about and apply for important programs and benefits.  NJ EASE staff members are trained to provide you with answers and information on a wide variety of topics, including:

  • Healthcare
  • Insurance
  • Home Care Services
  • Long Term Care Options
  • Transportation
  • Social Activities
  • Nutrition
  • Volunteer Opportunities
  • And more…

  
  NJ EASE promotes independence, dignity and choice for New Jersey’s older adults.   For more information, call 1-877-222-3737 or visit http://www.state.nj.us/health/senior/sanjease.shtml.

If you need help paying your utility bills, contact one of these organizations.

	Missouri Weatherization Assistance Program - federal grant program established to help reduce the heating and cooling costs for low income persons through improving the energy efficiency of their homes.
	Missouri Low Income Energy Assistance Program - program to assist qualifying households with the payment of a portion of their residential winter heating costs.
	Black Hills Cares - provides funds to help people with their energy bills or emergency energy-related expenses.
	"Heat Share" program by the Salvation Army - provides assistance with heating and cooling bills, and when funds permit, with emergency repairs to furnaces, air conditioners and hot-water heaters. Contact your local Salvation Army location for assistance.
	Empire's Action to Support the Elderly ("E.A.S.E.") - program to assist seniors with their overdue electric bills.
	Project Help by Empire District Electric Company provides assistance to senior citizens and handicapped persons.
	"IShare" and "IRap" programs by the Independence, Missouri Power and Light Department assist low-income and seniors with their utility bills. Contact your Community Services League for assistance.
	"Dollar More" - program by AmerenUE assists lower income individuals with their utility bills.
	"Dollar Aide" by Kansas City Power & Light helps people in need pay their utility bills. Contact KCP&L for assistance.
	Energy Assistance program by Missouri Gas Energy provides emergency assistance to assist with payment of utility bills.
	DOLLAR HELP - a non-profit corporation supported by Laclede Gas Company that provides private funds to low-income, elderly, and disabled households to prevent the cut-off of the household's heat. DOLLAR HELP is available only if you have qualified for LIHEAP. For information, contact: St. Louis City & Wellston Residents - Human Development Corporation (HDC)652-5100 St. Louis County Residents - Metroplex, Inc. 863-0015
	Operation "Round Up" – program by several local power companies provides energy assistance funds to local non-profit organizations and individuals in need:   Co-Mo Electric Cooperative   Crawford Electric Cooperative   Laclede Electric Cooperative   Osage Valley Electric Cooperative   White River Valley Electric Cooperative
	Caring Co-op Neighbors – a customer-funded program North Central Missouri Electric Cooperative to assist members who meet eligibility requirements. Members in need can receive up to $2,500 assistance annually. Apply through the Green Hills Community Action Agency or the Missouri Division of Family Services
	Make your home more energy efficient

Connecticut Energy Efficiency Fund limited-income program “WRAP” (Weatherization Residential Assistance Partnership), provides valuable weatherization measures to help renters and homeowners reduce their energy bills by making their homes more energy efficient. This program provides services to income-eligible electric, natural gas and oil heat customers.

Are You Eligible?

To determine if you are income-eligible, locate your family size on the chart below and the dollar amount next to it. If your family’s combined Gross Annual Income is this amount or less, you meet the state’s 60 percent income median, and qualify for the program.

In effect November 1, 2010

During the Visit

Specialists will assess the home’s energy efficiency and perform a wide range of weatherization services such as:

• Installing compact fluorescent lightbulbs (CFLs)
• Caulking drafts, cracks and leaks in your windows and doors
• Installing water-saving faucet aerators and showerheads

Additional Services

In addition to the above services, our energy experts will evaluate the residence and determine if attic insulation and/or appliances are inefficient and are eligible for upgrades.

How Do I Apply?

To sign up for WRAP services, please complete this application [PDF:59 KB] or call 1-800-388-WRAP (9727) if you need assistance. Tenants/renters must have their landlord complete the Owner's Permission Statement which is included with the application. Landlords are required to grant permission for tenants in their buildings.

Mail completed forms to:
WRAP Weatherization Services
Northeast Utilities System
PO Box 270
Hartford, CT 06101-9902

WRAP is supported by the Connecticut Energy Efficiency Fund and is a partnership among Connecticut Light and Power, Connecticut Natural Gas, Yankee Gas, the state of Connecticut and local Community Action Agencies.

Family of Woodstock, Inc.
• Provide housing services for victims of domestic violence, homeless individuals and families, and teens.
www.familyofwoodstockinc.org
24 hour hotline-338-2370

Habitat for Humanity, Ulster County
• Provides affordable housing to families in need.
http://www.ulstercountyhabitat.org
340-0907

Kingston Housing Authority
• Affordable housing for seniors, low-income families, and people with disabilities.
www.kingstonhousing.org
 331-1955

Multi-County Community Development Corp
http://www.rehab.org  
• Abel House/ Chemical dependence community residence- 246-2645
• HOPWA Program/ For Persons with HIV/AIDS- 247-9110 x 226
• OASAS Shelter + Care Program/ Support services to clients with substance addictions- 247-9110 x 226
• Paras House/ For Persons with HIV or AIDS- 247-9110 x 226
• Supportive Apartment Programs/ For Persons with mental illness/developmental disabilities- 247-9110 x 226

Rural Ulster Preservation Company (RUPCO)
• Real Estate and Community Development, Property Management for Low-Income families, Rental Assistance, Homeownership Program, Home Repair Grants, Foreclosure and Homeless Prevention.
www.rupco.org
331-2140


Shelters, Domestic Violence, Homeless, Teen, Families/Family of Woodstock, Inc.
• Darmstadt Shelter/ For the homeless- 331-1395
• Domestic Violence Shelter/ For women and children- 338-2370 Hotline,679-2485
• Family House/ Shelter for runaway & homeless adolescents- 338-5953
• Family Inn/Shelter for homeless families- 340-1847
• MidWay I and II/ Transitional housing for teens and their infant children- 339-5508, 647-1346
• Street Outreach/ For homeless kids and adolescents- 331-7080
• Washbourne House/ Battered Women's Shelter- Hotline 338-2370 Hotline
www.familyofwoodstockinc.org
331-7080, 338-2370 Hotline (24 hours)

Weatherization, Home, For Low Income/Ulster County Community Action Committee, Inc. (U.C.C.A.C.)
338-8750

Low Income Energy Assistance Program - (LIEAP)

LIEAP will officially open for general intake on Monday, December 6th, and close at the end of the day on Friday, December 10th. Applications may be obtained at local DHHR offices, Community Action agencies, or senior centers operated by an Area Agency on Aging. The online application will also be available on the DHHR website at www.wvinroads.org. In situations where a heating emergency exists, applicants must be seen by a DHHR Worker.

The Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) assists eligible households with the cost of home heating through direct cash payments or payments to utility companies on their behalf. A crisis component is available for households without resources facing the loss of a heating source. Eligibility for both program components is based on a combination of factors, including income, type of heating payment, and total heating costs.

LIEAP is funded entirely by a federal block grant. The program's duration and the amount of the payment is dependent on the amount of the grant. A portion of the grant is transferred to the Office of Economic Opportunity for the Weatherization Program. Applicants for LIEAP may be referred to Weatherization for additional assistance.

The Division of Family Assistance (DFA) operates LIEAP in each of the DHHR field offices for a short time each winter, usually beginning with an automated payment or a mail-out to targeted households. In addition, DFA contracts with the Community Action network and with regional Agency on Aging offices to perform outreach and accept LIEAP applications at their local sites.

View the FY 2011 LIEAP Fact Sheet below for further information, including income guidelines. If you have questions, please contact your local County Office.

FY 2011 Fact Sheet

20% Discount Program

The Special Reduced Residential Service Rate Program (20% Utility Discount Program) was established by statute to assist certain eligible participants in receiving a 20% discount from their electric and/or gas company.

In order to be eligible for this rate reduction, one must be a recipient of either SSI, WV WORKS, or SNAP (former Food Stamp Program) AND be 60 years of age or older. One must be a recipient of one of these programs during November, December, January, February, and March to get the discount for that month.

The electric and/or gas company will be responsible for determining your eligibility for the Special Reduced Residential Service Rate.

Tel-Assistance/LIFELINE and Link-Up

Through Tel-Assistance/Lifeline, telephone companies offer reduced basic service to eligible low-income elderly and disabled customers. The Division of Family Assistance issues applications to eligible recipients and provides ongoing eligibility information to the telephone companies and informs them when customers are no longer eligible for Tel-Assistance. This is handled centrally by the Division of Family Assistance.

Through Link Up, telephone companies offer a discount on telephone installation to low-income households. Applications and certification of eligibility are handled centrally by the Division of Family Assistance.

Related Information

• Propane Prices: What Consumers Should Know
• Residential Natural Gas Prices: What Consumers Should Know
• Residential Heating Oil Prices: What Consumers Should Know

For information and resources visit my blog at

http://friendshelpingfriends.aidpage.com/

American Legion - Carson Wilson Rigney Forrester Post 1, 1120 E. 8th Street Tulsa, OK  74120
Phone:  918-584-4274 - Fax:  918-584-4423 Fax.  Services:  Helps obtain emergency financial aid from veteran agencies for shelter and utilities. For veterans only.

Baptist Ministry Center - 312 S. 33rd W. Ave., Tulsa, OK 74127; 918-585-5310.  Services: Limited emergency assistance for clothing, household items, and food; Medical /adaptive equipment loan.

Boston Avenue Helping Hands, Inc. - dba Helping Hand Ministry, 700 S. Boston, Tulsa, OK 74119. Phone:  918-584-4701, 918-584-5233 Fax.  Services:  Emergency help for limited utility and rent assistance, prescriptions, food.  Aid limited to once a year; other criteria apply.

Bristow Social Services - 123 W. 6th Street, Bristow, OK 74010.  Phone918-367-5400, Fax: 918-367-6981.  Services: Social services and emergency aid for: food, clothing, utilities, rent, prescriptions, household items.

Broken Arrow Neighbors - 322 W. Broadway, Broken Arrow, OK 74012.  Phone:  918-251-7781
Services:  Food pantry, clothing, coats, free clinic for minor illnesses, no-interest loans for emergency needs.

Catholic Charities - P.O. Box 6429, Tulsa, OK 74148-0429.  Phone:  918-585-8167, FAX:  918-582-2123.  Services: Emergency aid for food, clothing.  Also, temporary lodging and aid for poor women who are homeless, pregnant or have infants; emergency lodging for poor families; amd residential care and services for persons with AIDS

Cornerstone Mission of First Baptist Church – Broken Arrow - 210 E. Broadway, Broken Arrow, OK 74012.  Phone:  918-251-6679, Church Office:  918-258-4575 Church Office.  Services:  Emergency assistance for food, clothing, and free clinic for minor medical needs.

Creek Indian Community of Tulsa - 8611 S. Union, Tulsa, OK 74132.  Phone:  918-298-2464, FAX:  918-298-2466.  Services:  For Creek Community Center Members: Diabetic supplies, medical trips to Indian health facilities, grants for education beyond high school.

Day Center for the Homeless - 415 W. Archer, Tulsa, OK 74103.  Phone:  918-583-5588, FAX: 918-583-6745.  Services:  Homeless services: Day center, transportation, mental health intervention, case management, service coordination, homeless shelter.  Free low income clinic for homeless persons: health screenings, limited prescriptions, crisis help.

Dayspring Villa - P.O. Box 1588, Sand Springs, OK 74063.  Phone:  918-245-4075.  Services:  Temporary shelter for women and children.

Disabled American Veterans - 3131 E. Pine, Tulsa, OK 74110.  Phone:  918-834-4643.  Services:  Veterans only.  Help obtaining emergency financial aid through government veteran agencies

Easter Seal Society, Oklahoma - 2738 E. 51st Street, Suite 130, Tulsa, OK 74105.  Phone:  918-743-2311, FAX: 918-749-8510.  Services:  Financial help for adaptive equipment and prescriptions.

For His Glory - P.O. Box 50754, Tulsa, OK 74150-0754.  Phone:  918-584-1808.  Services:  Shelter for homeless women.

Habitat for Humanity - P.O. Box 1357, Tulsa, OK 74101-1357, 16 E. 7th Street, Tulsa, OK 74119.  Phone:  918-592-4224.  Services:  Homebuilding for low income persons.  Families must put in 300 hours of construction work on their home.

Helpline - P.O. Box 52847, Tulsa, OK 74152.  Phone:  918-836-4357 Helpline (Voice and TTY), FAX:  918-834-9339, Business Line (Voice and TTY) 918-838-0195; Website: http://www.helplinetulsa.net. Services:  Information and referral to community services; crisis hotline.

Tulsa CARES (HIV Resource Consortium) - 3507 E. Admiral Place, Tulsa, OK 74115-8211. Phone (voice and TTY) 918-834-4194, FAX: 918-834-4189, Statewide Toll-Free Voice: 800-474-4872. Services: Emergency services for persons with HIV/AIDS: Food, prescriptions, medical transportation, housing aid, health and mental health services, case management

Indian Health Care Resource Center - 550 S. Peoria, Tulsa, OK 74120.  Phone:  918-588-1900.  Services:  Medical services for eligible persons; sliding scale fees.

John 3:16 Mission Men’s Shelter - P.O. Box 1477, Tulsa, OK 74101.  Location address:  506 N. Cheyenne, Tulsa, OK 74103.  Services:  Homeless shelter for men.  Meals at the site.

Kendall – Whittier Ministry
P.O. Box 4165, Tulsa, OK 74159-0165.  Phone:  918-592-3000, FAX:  918-592-3537, Canterbury Center:  918-583-9780.  Services:  Food pantry limited to Kendall – Whittier Ministry area residents.

Loaves and Fishes - 11321 E. 19th Street, Tulsa, OK 74128.  Phone:  918-234-8577.  Services: Emergency food.

Make-A-Wish Foundation of Oklahoma - 2825 E. Skelly Drive, Suite 824, Tulsa, OK 74105.  Phone: 918-712-9474; FAX:  918-712-9477.  Email: Oklahoma@wish.org.  OKC Office: 3030 NW Expressway, Suite 1300, OKC, OK 73112.  Phone:  405-943-9600; 405-943-7538.  Services:  Funds gifts to children with life threatening medical problems.  "Wishes" can be for travel, gifts, occupational or celebrity categories.

Morton Comprehensive Health Services
603 E. Pine Street, Tulsa, OK 74106-4895.  Phone:  918-587-2171, FAX:  918-587-8175.  Services:  Low income clinic, sliding scale fees for comprehensive primary health services and dental clinic.  Patient transportation available and there is a satellite homeless clinic.

Neighbor For Neighbor - 1506 E. 46th St. N., Tulsa, OK 74126.  Phone:  918-425-5578, FAX:  918-425-6935, Clinic:  918-425-5595.  Services:  Food, clothing, household items, free dental clinic, civil legal services, employment assistance, free medical clinic, eye clinic (exams, glasses, fee for lenses), prescription assistance

Neighborhood Housing Services of Tulsa - 502 S. Main Street, Suite 304, Tulsa, OK 74103.  Phone:  918-584-7069, FAX: 918-584-7168.  Services:  Housing programs, including first-time homebuyer assistance with closing and down payment costs; homebuyer education.  Income and other eligibility criteria apply for some programs

Neighbors Along the Line - P.O. Box 27352, Tulsa, OK 74149.  Phone:  918-582-3491.  Services:  Food pantry, must meet income criteria and live in target areas.  Free medical clinic; some medications dispensed. Northwest Tulsa residents are primary group served.

Project Get Together
2020 S. Maplewood Ave., Tulsa, OK 74112.  Phone:  918-835-2882, FAX:  918-835-2883, Social Services:  918-835-2910.  Services:  Diabetic supplies program for emergency needs, diabetic self-management education.  Emergency aid for food, household goods and other needs.  No-interest loans for rent deposits.  Housing programs, counseling and financial help to purchase a home, free medical clinic for low-income persons without health insurance, eye clinic provides exams and glasses for low cost.

Restore Hope Ministries - 2960 Charles Page Blvd., Tulsa, OK 74127.  Phone:  918-582-5766. Services:  No-interest loans for emergency needs for rent, utilities, and prescriptions, food assistance clothing assistance.

St. Clement’s Community Outreach
P.O. Box 35, 155th and S. Memorial, Bixby, OK 74008.  Phone:  918-366-3166.  Services:  Emergency clothing and food.

Salvation Army, Social Services Center - 102 N. Denver, Tulsa, OK 74103.  Phone:  918-582-7201, FAX: 918-582-4363.  Services:  Emergency disaster aid, emergency financial assistance for rent, utilities and other needs, emergency shelter. meals for homeless and needy.  Travelers assistance for work clothing, transportation, food and lodging.

Sapulpa Corps Community Center - Salvation Army, P.O. Box 1144, Sapulpa, OK 74067.  Phone:  918-224-4415, FAX:  918-224-4493.  Services:  Financial help for food, shelter, utilities, clothing and other emergency needs.

Sand Springs Welfare Association - 15 E. 2nd, Sand Springs, OK 74063.   Phone: 918-245-5183
Services:  Emergency assistance for needy.  Sand Springs area residents: food, shelter, clothing, medicine, rent,  and utilities.

Tulsa County Social Services Department- 2401 Charles Page Blvd., Tulsa, OK 74127-8435.  Pone: 918-596-5560, FAX: 918-596-5568, Shelter: 918-596-5591, TTY: 918-596-8525.  Services:  Food assistance, burial assistance, temporary emergency for shelter, food, clothing, and medical assistance, free clinic for 6-month residents of Tulsa County, who have no other resources, and low cost prescription medications.

Tulsa Development Authority - 110 S. Hartford, Suite 200, Tulsa, OK 74120-1820.  Phone:  918-596-2600.  Services:  For low income owners:  Grants for emergency home repair and loans to $20,000.00 for home repairs, for income-eligible owners.

Tulsa Speech and Hearing Association - 8740 E. 11th Street, Suite A, Tulsa, OK 74112-7957. Phone: 918-832-8742, FAX: 918-834-4329. Services: Sertoma Hearing Aid Program: Hearing aid long term loan, reconditioned hearing aids, for age 65 plus and low income individuals. Contact TSHA for details.  Financial help for  hearing exams, speech therapy.

WA-RO-MA Tri-County Community Action Agency - 324 E. Chestnut, Coweta, OK 74429.  Phone: 918-486-2471, FAX:  918-486-5967.  918-486-2230 and 918-486-4678 (all programs).  Services:  Emergency food, rent and utility assistance, Head Start and Early Head Start, home repair, and housing programs.

Western Neighbors, Inc. - P.O. Box 570976, Tulsa, OK 74157-0976.  Service location:  4981 S. Tacoma, Tulsa, OK 74107.  Phone:  918-445-8840.  Services:  For residents of southwest Tulsa:  Financial assistance, food, clothing, rent and utilities, based on funds available

Information & Referral

United Way
-Information & Referral Service (from landline) 211
-Or from cell phone 239-433-3900
http://www.unitedwaylee.org/

Elder Helpline of SW FL
(over age 60) 1-800-963-5337

Abuse Counseling & Treatment, Inc.

-24 Hour Family Violence & rape shelter/counseling

Phone: 239-939-3112
http://www.actabuse.com

Catholic Hispanic Social Services

- Programs to assist Hispanic persons, food vouchers, blankets, English classes, infant clothing, diapers4235 Michigan Avenue, Fort Myers

Phone: 239-337-4193
http://www.catholiccharitiesdov.org

Dept. of Children & Families

-AFDC-Aid to families with dependent children
-Aging/Adult services
-Food stamps
-Medicaid eligibility

4150 Ford Street Extension, Fort Myers
Phone: 1-866-762-2237
http://www. ?

Lee County Human Services

-Utility and rental assistance for low income and elderly

1440 Thompson Street, Fort Myers
Phone: 239-533-7900
http://dhs.lee-county.com/default.htm

Salvation Army

-10291 McGregor Blvd. 33919 239-278-1551
-Food & Clothing/Women's House 239-278-1551
-Overnight Shelter (single males) 2400 Edison Ave., Ft. Myers 239-332-4241

http://www.uss.salvationarmy.org/uss/www_uss_fortmyers.nsf

W.I.C. - Women, Infants, & Children

-Special supplement feeding program

3920 Michigan Avenue, Fort Myers
Phone: 239-332-9501
http://www.lee-county.com/healthdept

Lee Cares

-Provides information about Lee County Government services 239-332-2737

http://www.Lee-County.com

Health

Childrens Medical Services (H.R.S.)

-Provides Medical Services to children who are eligible for Medicaid
-Cost of services provided can be adjusted according to income

Phone: 239-939-8143
http://www.cms-kids.com

Lee County Health Department

-Free immunizations for babies & children
-General Health Care needs

3920 Michigan Ave., Fort Myers 239-332-9501
83 Pondella Road, N. Ft. Myers 239-656-4440
http://www.Lee-County.com/healthdept

Southwest Florida Addiction Services

-Treatment & Counseling for adults and adolescents
-Programs to ensure care for pregnant women
-Available to Medicare and Medicaid recipients
-Or cost-adjusted to income

Phone: 239-332-6937
http://www.swfas.org

Legal

Child Support Enforcement (H.R.S.)

-Available to AFDC and Medicaid recipients
-Or $ 25 initial fee for anyone with children in home

239-936-0102
http://dor.myflorida.com/dor/childsupport/

Florida Rural Legal Services

-Legal services provided to low income individuals
-Assist in landlord/tenant disputes

Phone: 239-334-4554
http://www.frls.org

Employment

Job & Benefit Center

-Job Service of Florida has jobs on computer, must come into office

Phone: 239-278-7140

Mayors Alliance

-Located at Goodwill Industries-Provides Services for people with disabilities

Phone: 239-995-2106 ext. 126

City of Cape Coral Job Line

-Recording of jobs available in City

Phone: 239-574-0535
http://www.capecoral.net

Miscellaneous

Consumer Credit Counseling of Florida Gulf Coast

-Free budget & financial counseling
-Debt repayment program
-Must call for application – appointments made after application is completed

Phone: 239-278-3121
http://www.cccsfl.org

Lifeline Family Center

-Maternity home, free pregnancy testing-Crisis Pregnancy Counseling

Phone: 239-574-4457
http://www.lifelinefamilycenter.org

S.O.L.V.E.

-Maternity Home, free pregnancy testing, infant clothes

5597 Sunrise Drive, Ft. Myers
Phone: 239-332-3122

Special Populations

-Day/evening/after school programs available for mentally and physically handicapped

400 Santa Barbara Blvd., Cape Coral
Phone: 239-574-0574

Lee County Housing Authority

-Various Types of low income housing (call for list)
-Voucher programs and new project becoming available

Phone: 239-997-6688

Social Security Administration

-SSI – Supplement Security Income
-Medicare applications

Phone: 1-800-772-1213
http://www.socialsecurity.gov

SHARE – Florida Food Network

Phone: 1-800-536-3379

Bus Information

Phone: 239-275-8726
http://www.leegov.com

Community Cooperative Ministries (Groceries/Meals/Soup Kitchen)

3429 MLK Jr Blvd., Ft. Myers 33916
Phone: 239-332-7687

NFM - All Souls Church - Pantry and Clothing

Open Wed 9 am to 12 noon

14640 N. Cleveland Ave, Ft. Myers
Phone: 239-997-7685

NFM - Church of God - Pantry

Phone: 239-995-4966
http://www.freewebs.com/nfmcog

FISH

-For Pine Island, St. James City & Bokeelia

Phone: (Leave message, someone will call back) 239-283-4442

Electric, gas and telephone utilities serve millions of customers in Georgia, but there are many customers who can't afford gas, electricity or basic phone service without the help of payment assistance programs. Many electric, gas, and telephone utility companies offer payment plans to their customers who qualify. They may allow deferred payment for those who cannot pay their whole bill or delay disconnection for customers trying to pay their bills. Many civic groups, charitable organizations, and churches in local communities provide payment assistance to low income customers. For more information, contact your gas, electric, or telephone service provider.

Telephone Programs

Lifeline

Lifeline Assistance provides up to a $13.50 credit on qualified residential customers' bills in AT&T-Georgia's service area (a federal credit of $10 and an additional credit of $3.50 from AT&T-Georgia). Customers in other telephone companies' service areas receive the $10 federal credit.

Link Up Georgia

Link-Up Georgia reduces the cost of hook-up charges for eligible customers. AT&T-Georgia waives 100% of the telephone service hook-up charge for its customers. Customers of all other local telephone companies in Georgia receive a waiver of one-half of the connection charge or $30, whichever is less.

You may be eligible if you can prove that you are currently receiving benefits under onev of the following programs:

• Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF)
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
• Food Stamps
• Medicaid
• Senior citizen low-income discount plan offered by the local gas or power company
• Federal Public Housing Assistance (FPHA)
• Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)

Call your local phone company to see if you qualify.

Electric and Gas Programs

Weatherization

The Georgia Environmental Finance Authority (www.gefa.org) distributes funds for weatherization assistance through Community Action Agencies for the repair or renovation of homes of low-income residents to make them more energy efficient. For more information call 404.656.3826 or contact your local Community Action Agency.

Low Income Energy Assistance

Most electric and gas utility companies provide an efficient means for their customers to help needy individuals by making it possible to include charitable donations with utility bill payments. Georgia Power Company and Atlanta Gas Light Company match funding contributed by their customers.

The Heating Energy Assistance Team ("HEAT") program is administered by the Georgia Department of Human Resources statewide through Community Action Agencies. For more information call 404.656.6696 or your local Community Action Agency. Project SHARE is also a statewide program and is administered by The Salvation Army. For more information call 1.800.25SHARE or your power company's customer service number.

Senior Citizen Discounts

Senior citizen discount rates provide savings for those who qualify. Customers who are at least 65 years old with a total household income of not more than $14,355 annually, are eligible to receive a $14.00 discount on their Georgia Power or Savannah Electric power bill. Natural gas customers in Atlanta Gas Light Company's delivery area may receive up to a $14.00 discount. Call your gas or electric service provider for more information.

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)/PSC Matching Grant for Seniors

As a resident of Georgia, you may qualify for a financial assistance program designed to help you pay your energy bills. Low-income consumers who meet the following criteria are eligible to receive assistance from the federally-funded LIHEAP.

• Has an annual income at or below 150% of the poverty level for Georgia,
• is responsible for paying the cost of his or her home's primary heating source, and
• is a U.S. citizen or legally admitted alien.

For more information or to apply for assistance, contact the numbers listed below.

Phone Numbers for LIHEAP Assistance

Other Financial Assistance Programs

• The United Way, 2.1.1, or 404.614.1000
• The Salvation Army, 404.873.3101, or 800.257.4273 - toll free

Click Here For Website

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is coordinated through Miami-Dade County's Community Action Agency's Self Help Division as part of their emergency assistance programs. The program provides assistance to low-income individuals and families who are experiencing financial difficulty with paying their electric and gas utility bills. Eligible applicants will receive a credit payment which would be applied to their existing utility bill. The program is funded through the Florida Department of Community Affairs Division of Housing and Community Development, and provides assistance to over 50,000 households annually. LIHEAP provides assistance in three categories, which include:

• Regular Energy Assistance- designed to assist eligible participants with the ever increasing cost of their home energy expense. The program provides a credit payment ranging from $150 - $300 dollars to be applied to their existing utility account. Regular Energy Assistance is restricted to once a year; eligible participants must continue to pay their utility bill awaiting the credit payment to apply to their account balance.
• Crisis Energy Assistance- provides assistance to eligible households in resolving a home energy emergency/crisis. Participants having received a final notice or disconnection of services are eligible to receive assistance in this category. Eligible participants may receive a credit payment up to $600.00 to be applied to their existing utility account. Participants are permitted to apply twice annually during the winter and summer seasons for the Crisis Energy Assistance.
• Weather-Related Crisis- assists eligible households to resolve a home energy emergency caused by a specific weather related disaster as declared by the Governor.

Eligibility for these programs requires the household income not to exceed 150% of the U.S. Poverty Guidelines. Regular and Crisis Energy Assistance programs are administered throughout the year as funding is available. Applications are available at Miami-Dade County's Community Action Agency's Service Centers. Applications maybe returned to the CAA Service Centers along with the required documentation to determine proof of eligibility.

Community Action Agency has an established partnership with Florida Power & Light as well as other community organizations to provide assistance with Home Energy related issues.

• LIHEAP Application in English
• LIHEAP Application in Spanish

For additional information regarding the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) or other services provided by the Community Action Agency, contact us at 786-469-4640.