EMAA AIDS WITH UTILITY PAYMENTS

Over 40,000 in federal money is available to pay utility bills for families who may find themselves without heat this winter.

The money can be used as a last resort when utilities have been shut off or will be shut off and families have no other resources to pay the bill. The assistance is flexible and can be used for propane or wood under similar crisis conditions.

Local East Missouri Action Agency offices will take applications. To apply, applicants must bring Social Security cards for all household members, proof of income for the previous month, ages of all family memberes, disability status and the utility shut off or similar notice. Offices are located in Cape Girardeau, Bollinge,r Perry, Iron, Madison, St. Francois, Ste. Genevieve and Washington counties.

Low-income families having trouble meeting utility payments may also check with the Division of Family Services' Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program for help. For information in Cape Girardeau County, call 334-5533.