A summer energy assistance program administered by the not-for-profit North East Community Action Corporation (NECAC) has received additional funding that allows it to double the amount of help available.

The Missouri Department of Social Services announced an additional $15 million for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). The funding doubles the maximum benefit to $600 per income-qualifying household.

“We welcome these dollars and are glad to see that the benefit has now been increased,” said NECAC County Services Programs Director Linda Fritz. “We urge people to call us and request an application if they have not already applied for energy assistance.”

To qualify, applicants must have a household income of 135 percent or less of the federal poverty level — a monthly income of $2,400 for a family of three or $2,897 for a family of four — and have less than $3,000 in a bank account. The person must be the one responsible for the bill. A utility shut-off notice is not required. The program ends Sept. 30.

NECAC also continues to take applications for the summer portion of the Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP). It pays overdue electricity bills of up to $600 for income-qualifying households.

“ECIP participants must have received a utility shut-off notice for electric service or have terminated services,” said NECAC Supervisor Angela Kattenbraker. “If they received assistance from the winter portion of the program through NECAC and did not move, all that will be needed is the shut-off notice. Those who are new to the program, have received LIHEAP but moved, and those who did not participate in the winter portion must complete an application for assistance.”

People may sign up or request more information by calling or visiting the NECAC Warren County Service Center, 120 E. Main in Warrenton, at 636-456-8191.