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Summer Crisis Program
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With summer approaching and the temperature rising, the need for air conditioning is on the rise and that can mean hefty
energy bills.
The Hocking Athens Perry Community Action agency is teaming up with the Home Energy Assistance Program to offer
households help with their electric bills.
The program started June 1st.
Community Services Coordinator Kerri Shaw says the program will run until all funds are used, but no later than August 31st.
People 60 or older, those who have a physician's note stating they would benefit from this program, and those whose household has a disconnect notice from the electric company are eligible to participate.
This summer is expected to have high temperatures and Shaw says the eligibility requirements expanded, resulting in an increase of applicants.
"We could be serving a lot more applicants than we have in the past. I think we have typically served maybe around 2,000
households in in the summer, but we could exceed that this year."
Eligible households may receive up to 250 dollars toward their electric bill and/or an air conditioner.
Shaw says the number of air conditioners available for applicants is limited because other agencies have purchased air
conditioners for their programs.
"Households won't be turned away for the energy aspect of it ,like utility bills, but we still have a limited amount of air
conditioners," Shaw said.
The Summer Crisis Program will have additional funds available because of the mild winter says Shaw.
"In addition to the mild winter, we have implemented a program called PIPP Plus and the payment plan has helped people stay
current on their bills and so they are less likely to go in to a crisis or emergency situation."
The money from the state program has helped many households in the past says Shaw.
"The summer is expected to be really really hot this year and so hopefully we will be able to take a little bit of stress off people's
bills andfrom their household and just make them less stressed."
Household,Athens and Perry Community Action is scheduling appointments through a voice recording.
The number is 1-866-487-1362 and is available 5:00 a.m.- 7:00 a.m. Monday through Friday.