Energy bill assistance available to Cherokee County residents

Hot summer temperatures mean high utility bills.
For those living on limited income this burden can be major.
Many families have also been impacted by loss of income due to the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic.

These families may qualify for assistance through federal LIHEAP funding.

According to Teresa Land, Program Manager, “COVID19 has caused financial stress in many homes. Households who have not qualified in the past now qualify. We are making a special effort to reach people who have never applied.”

Assistance may occur multiple months depending on eligibility. The program targets elderly, disabled and the working poor.

Karen Swenson, Executive Director explained, “We want people to apply now before the high bills start arriving. Wait times for assistance will be longer as high bills start to arrive. Many households receive help multiple months which can help families through the hot part of the summer and into fall.”

The Greater East Texas Community Action Program administers the program in Cherokee County and surrounding counties. Eligibility is based on household income, citizenship and circumstances.
Individuals may apply by mail or online. The website is get-cap.org.

A face to face interview is not required if the individual will provide a copy of the required information.

Applications mailed or done online are contacted by telephone and the case can often be completed without ever seeing the person face to face.
For more information visit the website at get-cap.org or call 800-621-5746. Certain days there may be a high call volume so multiple attempts may be needed. GETCAP programs are available to all regardless of race, color, creed, or national origin.