As winter temperatures drop and the cost of heating your home rises, the American Red Cross and the state of Utah are back again this year with help.
The state's Division of Community Development is offering the Home Energy Assistance Target (HEAT) program to disadvantaged Utah families. The federally funded program assists low-income elderly and disabled citizens by making a one-time payment directly to the utility company.
Last winter, HEAT served nearly 26,000 Utah homes. To qualify, applicants must have some type of identification, Social Security cards for those 18 years or older, a copy of their most recent utility bills and proof of household income.
Along with support from local utility companies, the Red Cross' Utility Assistance Program provides support to elderly and disabled citizens who cannot afford to pay their utility bills.
Last year the program aided 1,331 limited-income families with more than $298,500 in financial assistance.
To qualify for the Utility Assistance Program, clients must live at 150 percent of the poverty level and be over the age of 65 or have a disability. They must also provide proof of their previous month's income. Assistance can be only given one time per fiscal year.
This winter is expected to be especially cold and program organizers are concerned about having enough funds to provide assistance to everyone who applies. To contribute to the program, residents may add a few dollars to their monthly Utah Power, Questar or water bills. In addition, Utah Power matches contributions from the public, dollar for dollar. Contributions can also be made via the Internet at www.utahredcross.org
To apply for HEAT assistance, residents can call toll-free 1-866-265-4357. To qualify for the Utility Assistance Program, call the Red Cross at 323-7000.