Residents struggling with high energy bills will continue to get help from the city of Fort Worth.
The city council accepted a grant from the Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs of up to $7 million to provide the Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program through Community Action Partners, which is managed by the city’s Neighborhood Services Department.
The funds will provide help with utility payments and energy conservation education for low- to moderate-income residents.
The projected amount is up from $4,471,607 last year. The additional amount takes into account expected rate increases.
During the past seven years, the city has received an average of $6,341,752 per year and as much as $9,202,727 in one year.
The three components of the program are:
1. Household Energy Crisis – weatherization, energy-related aid, repair of heating and air-conditioning systems and/or purchase of window units.
2. Utility Assistance – priority given to households with elderly and or disabled members or a child under 5.
3. Case Management – promoting energy self-sufficiency.
All Tarrant County households at or below 150 percent of the Federal Poverty Income Guidelines may be eligible for the program, depending on income guidelines and program procedures. Payments will be made for eligible clients directly to the utility vendors and heating and cooling system repair companies.
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program services include the weatherization of homes. Clients may be eligible for up to eight payments of utility assistance and assistance through other programs such as gas and water (Fort Worth only).
To schedule an appointment, call the Community Action Partners Customer Care Center at 817-392-5790.