Wayne DSS to open process for heating assistance in December
By Steve Herring
Published in News on November 11, 2015 1:46 PM
The Wayne County Department of Social Services will began accepting applications in December for the Low Income Energy Assistance Program.
The county is expecting to receive an estimated $583,991 for the program that provides a one-time annual vendor payment to help eligible families pay their heating expenses.
Applications will be accepted Dec. 1 through March 31 or until the funds are exhausted.
Applicants must meet an income test, and at least one person in the household must be a U.S. citizen or a non-citizen who meets eligibility criteria.
Applications will be taken at:
* Wayne County DSS, 301 N. Herman St., Monday through Thursday from 7 a.m. to 6 p.m., Dec. 1 to March 31 or until the funding is exhausted
* Wayne County Services on Aging at the Peggy M. Seegars Senior Center, 2001 E. Ash St., Dec. 1 to 15, Monday through Thursday from 7:30 a.m. to 1 p.m.
* WAGES Mount Olive nutrition site, 711 N. Center St., Mount Olive, Dec. 16 to 31 (off Dec. 21 to 25), Monday through Thursday, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.
Those who apply should bring Social Security numbers for each household member, account number for their heating utility bill and proof of income such as award letters or check stubs received during the month prior to the application
People 60 or older and disabled persons who are receiving services through the Division of Aging and Adult Services may apply from Dec. 1 to 31.
If money is still available after that time individuals and families with the lowest income and highest relative energy costs and needs may apply from Jan. 1 to March 31 or until funding is exhausted.
The one-time amount approved depends on the heating source and is paid directly to the vendor.
People who heat with fuel oil, kerosene or LP gas are eligible for $400.
People who heat with wood, natural gas, coal or electricity are eligible for $200.
Payments are made directly to the service provider, such as power, gas or oil companies during the month of the application.