The Low Income Energy Assistance Program provides assistance for qualified people who need help in surviving the summer heat. It's operated by Douglas-Cherokee Economic Authority and serves people in the following Tennessee Counties: Hamblen, Jefferson, Cocke, Greene, Grainger, Monroe and Sevier. Most other counties in the state have a similar action. Look in the phone book under "community action agency" to find the service for your area.
The agency accepts cash donations and donations of fans and air conditioners. Many times, air conditioners are carefully distributed because families won't be able to pay the electric bill. If you have an old fan sitting around, please get it to this agency. It could make a newborn infant or an elderly person or someone battling asthma a little more comfortable.
If you know some one in need of help in paying their electric bill, Douglas-Cherokee Economic Authority may also help if state or federal funds are available. At this time of the year (July) it may be too late. It's worth a try, though, if you're in need or someone you know is. Guidelines are about 125 percent above the poverty level. Applicants are rated and funds are distributed based on a priority system until the funds run out.
Good luck everyone in staying cool.
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