FAMILY SERVICES SEEKS APPLICATIONS FOR HEAT ASSISTANCE

The Cape Girardeau Division of Family Services will begin taking applications for its Energy Assistance program Monday.

Families that have had their heat shut off or have received a disconnection notice may contact the Cape Girardeau County Office for emergency assistance. These crisis situations will receive priority assistance, and attempts will be made to resume service as quickly as possible.

Applications will be mailed on a daily basis to people receiving food stamps and to elderly or disabled persons that applied last year.

To be eligible for energy assistance, applicants must be responsible for paying home heating costs, be a U.S. citizen or a permanent, legal resident of the United States, applicants must not generate income exceeding $5,500 and meet specific income guidelines that vary according to household size.

People who live in subsidized housing are not eligible unless heat service is billed in their name.

Those who qualify will receive a single credit toward their energy bill - varying according to need - mailed directly to the electric company.

Family Services requires all applicants to have Social Security cards, a copy of their most recent fuel bill, proof of income sources for the month prior to application, proof of age (if 60 or older) and records of cash and securities owned by all members of the residence.

For application information, contact the Division of Family Services Office at 290-5800.