Energy Assistance

503-615-0771

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Community Action assists low-income households with their heating and electricity costs. The program operates year-round using federal, state, and private funding. Assistance availability depends on funding cycles, donations received, and type of requests. Funds are limited, so there may be times when immediate assistance is not available. Some funding sources offer seasonal help, while others target specific (not all) energy vendors.

How is eligibility determined?

Households are eligible when their total gross income is 60% or less than the Oregon statewide average median income used for energy assistance program (see chart below) .

How is payment made?

Payment is made directly to the fuel vendor (electric, oil, propane, wood or gas company). If heat is included in rent, applicants can be paid directly. Direct payments can also be made to applicants who have already purchased their winter supply of fuel. It generally takes 3-6 weeks after the application is made before payment is received.

What are the income guidelines?

Eligibility is based on the total gross household income received by all members living in the home at the time of application. This means that families sharing a dwelling must apply as one unit. Income includes: wages, unemployment compensation, TANF payments, Social Security, SSI, pensions, VA, grants, and other regular payments. It does not include food stamps, loans, subsidies, etc.

INCOME GUIDELINES FOR ENERGY ASSISTANCE PROGRAMS

60% of Median Income (Statewide Average)

How Much Help Will I Receive?

Assistance payment amounts are based on total household income, the number of people in the house, and whether or not they live in subsidized housing. Average payments for non-subsidized households are about $300, $150 for residents living in subsidized housing. This is usually a one-time payment for the year. Under extreme circumstances however, some households may qualify for additional assistance. If someone is not eligible, we will help them work with their fuel vendor or refer them to other available services.

How Do I Apply?

After an initial pre-screening, if it appears likely that you are eligible for assistance after an initial pre-screening, you will be given an appointment for intake. At the intake interview you must bring: names, dates of birth, social security numbers, proof of income for all adults living in the household, and current heating bill with account number or proof of purchase of fuel. Some outreach services are available for home-bound seniors and people with disabilities. Translation services are available for non-English-speaking people.

Energy Education

Community Action offers energy conservation education. Resources include: written materials, one-on-one counseling, and group workshops focusing on energy conservation techniques. Families may apply for free weatherization services to help them lower their utility bills and stay warmer and healthier throughout the year.

Energy Assistance Tips

• If you get behind on your bill, call the utility company to arrange a time payment plan. You might be able to arrange a payment agreement that is more workable for you.

• Let the utility company know you are seeking assistance from an energy assistance program.

• Make minimum payments, as much as you possibly can.

• Set your thermostat at 68 degrees, or as low as possible during the day, 50 to 55 degrees at night and when you are gone.

• Heating your house with a fireplace or the oven is dangerous, costly, and ineffective.

• Turn your lights and appliances off when they're not being used, especially your TV.

• Apply for Community Action's cost-free weatherization services.

• Inquire about our energy education workshops.