January 15, 2002
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Janet Howard-Joseph 678-406-0212
info@heatga.org

H.E.A.T. Provides Energy Assistance for Low-Income Georgians - Agency has $370,000 to assist Georgians in need

The Heating Energy Assistance Team (H.E.A.T.), Inc., an Atlanta-based nonprofit organization, has made available nearly $370,000 to the Georgia Department of Human Resources (DHR) to assist Georgians in need who are unable to pay their energy bills.

"H.E.A.T. is pleased to provide funding to help with the cost of energy at a time when many citizens are struggling to pay their heating bills," said Janet Howard-Joseph, executive director. Private citizens and the natural gas industry, including SCANA Energy, AGL Resources, Georgia Natural Gas, Shell Energy and the New Power Company provided funding to help with the "team" effort.

"This is a good example of how partnerships between community organizations, government and the private sector can work together for the well-being of Georgia citizens," said Georgia DHR Commissioner Jim Martin.

Georgia residents who need assistance may apply through their local Community Action Agency. To qualify for this assistance, household income cannot exceed 150 percent of the federal poverty level. Maximum income to qualify for assistance ranges from $12,885 for a one-person household to $44,595 for a family of eight or more. Aid is granted on a first-come, first-served basis.

Applicants must bring their most recent bill or statement of service from their natural gas marketer. They must also have proof of income for all household members for the last thirty days. Verification of income may be in the form of a paycheck stub, a letter granting public assistance, Social Security or unemployment benefits. Applicants must also have the Social Security numbers of all household members 18-years-old or older.

"The need for energy assistance is overwhelming," says Ms. Howard-Joseph. "The dollars that people contribute can add up to help the thousands of families needing assistance." Individuals wishing to contribute may send a check, made payable to H.E.A.T. c/o First Union Bank, P.O. Box 930112, Atlanta, GA 31193. Customers of SCANA Energy and Energy America may make donations through their gas bill.

H.E.A.T., which began as a program of Atlanta Gas Light Company, is the oldest fuel fund program in Georgia distributing more than $13 million since 1983 and assisting some 65,000 households. For more information about H.E.A.T., call 678-406-0212.

For more information about where to apply for energy assistance, qualified applicants should contact their local Community Action Agency or call the Georgia Department of Human Resources at 1-800-869-1150 statewide. In the metro Atlanta area call 404-657-3426 or 404-657-3427.

(Photo of check presentation available upon request.)