The Virginia Department of Social Services is accepting applications for the first phase of the Energy Assistance Program from now through Friday, Nov. 11.
This program assists qualifying Patrick County residents with the cost of heating their homes. Applicants must meet financial requirements and have a viable heat source.
VDSS stresses to applicants that this is a supplemental program and will not cover the entire amount needed to heat a home for the entire heating season.
Though residents must apply within the next month, they will not receive assistance until the end of December or beginning of January. Applicants must continue to pay their heating and electric bills.
Customers who heat with electricity must provide a copy of their current bills when applying. The income of all household members—for the previous month—must be verified, regardless of the income source.
In mid-December, benefit amounts for qualifying households will be determined according to funds available from the Federal government. A notice will be sent to each household indicating the approved benefit amount.
Notices will be sent to ineligible households immediately following the processing of the application. Benefit levels are based on household size, income, fuel type and geographic area.
In most cases, home heating payments will be made to vendors who provide fuel and services. However, homes using wood or coal and those with limited fuel-storage capacity may receive direct payments.
Because of the changes in the Fuel Program there will be no approvals by Virginia this year. Applicants are encouraged to complete applications and return them to the Patrick County Social Services office.
Any resident of Patrick County needing additional information may contact the Patrick County Department of Social Services at 106 Rucker Street, Suite 128, in Stuart or call (276) 694-3328. Applications may also be filled out online at www.commonhelp.virginia.gov.
