Lisa F. Townes, our 3rd District council liaison, reminds North Richmond residents that the city’s Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program’s deadline is fast approaching. If you know of neighbors who might qualify — especially as heating costs are on the rise — and might not have access to the Internet, please pass the word:

As the weather gets cooler and we begin to put on our sweaters and turn up the heat, please be aware that there is assistance for individuals that may not be able to meet the cost of heating their homes. The Department of Social Services offers assistance through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. The last day to apply for heating assistance is FRIDAY, NOVEMBER 9, 2007. To find out how to apply, contact the Richmond Department of Social Services at (804) 646-7046.

As always, please share this with your neighbors that may not have computer access. This is especially important for our senior citizens who are the least likely to use a computer but more likely to need this service.

Fuel Assistance

The Fuel Assistance component helps eligible households with the costs of heating their homes. To be eligible for fuel assistance, there are certain income guidelines, resource maximums and living arrangements that must be met. The household must also be responsible for paying the heating bill. Fuel Assistance applications are accepted from the second Tuesday in October through the second Friday in November at the Department of Social Services. Fuel Assistance applications are processed as soon as possible, and applicants should expect notification of their eligibility determination by mid-December.