Funding will soon be available through the North Carolina Low Income Energy Assistance Program to help member-owners struggling to cover their heating costs. Applications will be accepted starting Dec. 1.
The federally funded program offers a one-time vendor payment to help eligible households pay their heating bill through March 31, 2022.
“According to the Energy Information Administration, heating costs are expected to soar this winter,” said Dennis McFee, the co-op’s vice-president of member services, marketing and public relations. “As a result, we recognize that member-owners may need some additional assistance with paying their heating bills.”
Member-owners needing LIEAP assistance should first reach out to their local county department of social services. The Roanoke Electric Co-op’s Care Team will work with the agency to provide the required documentation needed to complete the application process
Wanda Edwards, program manager for Halifax County DSS, said there have been some modifications to the qualifications this year. “Something new this year for LIEAP will be households with a member 0-5 years old and/or 60 or above will be able to apply for LIEAP beginning Dec. 1,” she explained. “Automatic payments will also be applied to accounts again this year for individuals who received assistance last year.”
To be eligible for assistance, applicants must meet the following criteria:
Have at least one U.S. citizen or non-citizen who meets the eligibility criteria
Meet an income test
- Have reserves at or below $2,250
- Be responsible for its heating costs
Households with a family member aged 0-5 years and/or 60 or older, or an individual receiving disability benefits and services through the North Carolina Division of Aging and Adult Services, are eligible to sign up for assistance from Dec. 1- Dec. 31, 2021.
All other member-owners can apply from Jan. 2 – March 31, 2022, or until funds are exhausted.
Applications may be taken over the phone, in person, fax, email or by going to www.epass.nc.gov.
Member-owners are also encouraged to reach out to the co-op for additional information about programs and services that may help them lower their energy costs.
To contact the Roanoke Electric Co-op Care Team, please call 252-209-2236, email info@roanokeelectric.com, or visit our Payment Assistance page.