NORTHEAST ALABAMA-Residents in several Northeast Alabama counties who need assistance with summer cooling expenses may qualify for help through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

The program serves eligible residents in Blount, Cherokee, DeKalb, Jackson, Marshall and St. Clair counties and provides assistance to qualifying households struggling with home energy costs.

LIHEAP is funded through a grant from the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) contracts with community action agencies and local nonprofit organizations to administer the program to low-income households throughout the state.

The program’s purpose is to help low-income families meet the costs of home energy, including residential heating and cooling expenses, while increasing energy self-sufficiency and reducing vulnerability related to energy needs.

LIHEAP primarily serves low-income households, particularly those with the lowest incomes and highest home energy costs in relation to household income and family size. Special consideration is given to households that include elderly individuals, persons with disabilities and young children. To qualify for assistance, a household’s income must not exceed 150 percent of the federally established poverty level.

How to Apply

Appointments are required and may be scheduled by phone or online.

Residents may call (256) 999-1166 to schedule an appointment or visit https://www.caaneal.org/appointments to book online.

When calling, applicants should select the option for Utility Assistance. Officials stress that applicants should not select Weatherization, as Weatherization appointments are separate and cannot be used for utility assistance requests.

Required Documents

Applicants must bring the following documents to their appointment:

• Original Social Security cards for all household members
• Current Alabama photo identification for the head of household and spouse
• Proof of gross income for the previous month for all household members, including pay stubs, Social Security benefits, pension statements or other income documentation
• A lease agreement or voucher if residing in Public Housing or Section 8 Housing
• A copy of the most recent electric bill for the household’s primary cooling source

Residents with questions regarding eligibility requirements or appointment scheduling may contact the agency at (256) 996-1166.

Program officials encourage eligible residents who may need assistance with summer energy costs to apply as soon as possible.