COOLING ASSISTANCE AVAILABLE FOR ELDERLY

East Missouri Action Agency (EMAA) has received $172,800 in funds from the state to provide cooling assistance to low income families during the 2000 summer months.

Distribution of the funds began on June 1, through the Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP) For this year only, the disconnect notice for the elderly has been waived, therefore, making it possible to help even more families in need during the hot summer months. Qualifying families can receive up a maximum $200 assistance during the summer program, lessening the burden of the high cost of cooling their homes.

EMAA may also provide fans and air conditioners to low income families. Fans will be given to families who meet the income guidelines and one of the following requirements: Elderly (60 and over), disabled, or families with a child five or under in the home.

Air conditioners may be loaned to families for the summer if they meet the income guidelines and document a life threatening medical emergency.

For more information on the programs listed above, or to apply for assistance, please contact the EMAA Cape County outreach office at 334-5533.