Porter County Aging and Community Services is now scheduling appointments for the Energy Assistance Program.
Those needing assistance with their energy bills can call a new number: (219) 850-1131 to schedule appointments, which will begin on Monday Nov. 3.
PCACS Executive Director Bruce Lindner said the phone number was created specifically for the program.
“Callers will be asked to leave their name and phone number on the voicemail system and we will get back to them as soon as we can,” he said. “By having this new system, we will better manage the heavy flow of calls and requests for assistance.”
The program is an income-eligible program that helps qualified participants who need assistance with their energy bills during the winter season. When participants qualify, the payment is electronically paid to the appropriate energy company.
“As a reminder, the program is not based on how much is due on an energy bill but such factors as amount of money the household had in the last 12 months, the number of people in the household and type of housing,” Lindner said.
Before reaching out for assistance, community members should verify that they are eligible according to the following income guidelines. A one-person household must be at or below $17,505 annual income, two-person household at or below $23,595, a three-person household at or below $29,658 and a four-person household at or below $35,775. An allowance of $6,090 is added for each additional person in the house.
In general, individuals will need to have a current energy bill that includes the applicants’ name, social security cards for everyone in the household, and proof of income from all sources for household members over 18.
A checklist of expected needed items and a Landlord Affidavit form are available on the PCACS Web site: www.portercountyacs.org.
Those who have been issued a disconnect notice or need more immediate energy help will be seen if possible as walk-ins on a first-come, first-served basis at PCACS,1005 N. Campbell St.
“We ask for your patience as we seek to serve everyone in a timely fashion based on appointment time, need and circumstances,” Lindner said.
PCACS’ mission is to extend a helping hand to seniors, those with disabilities and low-income residents by providing services to improve their quality of life, including transportation, nutrition programs, energy assistance and activity centers.
For more information, visit www.portercountyacs.org.