Porter County Aging and Community Services will begin reviewing applications for the Energy Assistance program on Nov. 1, a month later than last year due to new program guidelines.
Beginning Oct. 24, PCACS staff will start taking appointments. Seniors and people with disabilities who were eligible last year will automatically receive applications through the mail.
“The Energy Assistance program has been helping individuals who are struggling to pay their energy bills for years and years,” said PCACS Executive Director Bruce Lindner. “Energy Assistance is an income-eligible program as well as a program to help seniors and individuals with disabilities. When participants qualify for a determined amount, the payment is electronically paid to the appropriate energy company.”
In order to apply for assistance, individuals will need a recent energy bill that is in the applicants’ name, but it does not have to be a disconnect notice. They will also need social security cards for everyone in the household and proof of income from all sources for household members over 18. If applicants are renting, a copy of the lease is required. Additional documents may be needed for some circumstances.
“We want to remind applicants that the energy bills must be in their names to receive assistance,” Lindner said.
Appointments may be scheduled starting Oct. 24, by calling PCACS at 464-9736.
PCACS’ mission is to extend a helping hand to seniors, those with disabilities and low-income residents by providing services to improve their quality of life, including transportation, nutrition programs, energy assistance and activity centers.