AREA AGENCY GIVEN FUNDS TO HELP POOR PAY UTILITY BILLS

The East Missouri Action Agency has received an additional $341,000 for its energy crisis intervention program to help low-income families in its eight-county service area pay utility bills.

Several changes have been made to the program. Income eligibility was increased to 150 percent of federal poverty guidelines. Maximum assistance amount was increased from $400 to $600. Applicants who received assistance earlier this winter can re-apply for additional help. Applicants can apply for assistance as soon as they receive utility bills instead of waiting for shut-off notices.

To qualify, annual household income for one person must not exceed $12,525, for two people $16,875, for three people $21,225, and for four people, $25,575. Guidelines are available for larger families.

Assistance payments go directly to utility companies.

For information, call Kevin Sexton at the Cape Girar-deau County outreach office at 334-5533.