Business & economy, In the community

Seniors, disabled can get help with energy bills in Malheur County

ONTARIO – A local nonprofit will hold a community outreach session for seniors and people with disabilities to apply for energy assistance by appointment only at the Vale City Library on Tuesday, Nov. 15. 

Kris Hurd, program manager with Communities in Action, said that the organization no longer holds in-person appointments in the post-pandemic world. However., she said the Nov. 15 event is a great way to do outreach and get people in the door. 

While people can apply for energy assistance by mail or over the phone, others like face-to-face interaction, according to Hurd. 

People interested in making an appointment can call 541-889-9555. 

Identification for all household members over 18 is required, a press release from Communities in Action noted. Additionally, the press release said heating source bills, proof of income for the past 30 days and a social security benefits letter for the year 2022 are required to schedule an appointment.  

Hurd said the energy assistance is federally funded and then administered by the state. Absent coronavirus relief funds, Hurd said the funds available for energy assistance are roughly $800,000 this year.  

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