December 20, 2004
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Janet Howard-Joseph 678-406-0212
info@heatga.org

H.E.A.T. Funding Increases 33%

Atlanta, GA - The Heating Energy Assistance Team (H.E.A.T.), Inc., an Atlanta-based nonprofit organization that provides energy assistance statewide to needy Georgians, announced today that it has provided $500,000 to the Georgia Department of Human Resources (DHR) to assist qualified Georgians who are unable to pay their energy bills.

"H.E.A.T. is pleased to provide increased funding from last year to help low-income citizens who may be facing energy emergencies," said Janet Howard-Joseph, executive director. "Private citizens and the natural gas industry, including SCANA Energy, AGL Resources, Georgia Natural Gas, Southern Company GAS, Vectren Source, Infinite Energy, ACN Energy, and GasKey donated corporate financial contributions to help with the team effort."

Dorsey and Florine Lewis, an elderly couple with serious health problems and on fixed incomes, were among thousands of Georgians who benefited from heating assistance. "Thanks to H.E.A.T., we're able to keep warm this winter," said 73 year-old Lewis. "For that we are truly grateful," added Lewis' 63 year-old wife.

H.E.A.T. funds are distributed by DHR through local community action agencies. Qualified families apply for assistance at the agency that serves their county. Family households must meet established guidelines that include income eligibility. During winter 2003-2004, $375,000 was disbursed through DHR to more than 1,700 households.

"It's fortunate that H.E.A.T. is making this donation so soon after the area received some of its coldest weather so far. This money will go a long way in making sure thousands of Georgians stay warm this winter and it also illustrates how H.E.A.T., LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) and DHR are all working together to serve Georgia," said B.J. Walker, commissioner, Georgia Department of Human Resources.

Established in 1983, H.E.A.T. is the oldest statewide fuel fund program in Georgia. The program has helped address the energy needs of low-income Georgians by joining forces with concerned citizens, businesses and state government. During the past 21 years, H.E.A.T. has distributed nearly $14 million in energy assistance to more than 70,000 households in Georgia. For more information, visit www.heatga.org or call 678-406-0212.