North East Community Action Corp. (NECAC) kicked off its utility assistance season Nov. 1, and applications so far are down slightly from this point last year.

The program for utility assistance began Nov. 1 for qualifying elderly and disabled clients. It will start Dec. 1 for families and individuals. New clients may sign up after the dates listed. Applications are available at the NECAC office in downtown Warrenton or by calling 573-324-0120.

There are two types of assistance available: the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program and the Energy Crisis Intervention Program. The programs are funded by the federal government and distributed through the states, which contract with non-profit groups such as NECAC to administer the programs at the local level. 

The low income program assists with paying part of the energy bills of income-qualifying people. Eligible households could receive a minimum of $45 up to a maximum of $450, depending on income, household size and type of heating source. Payments are made directly to utility companies.

The energy crisis program offers assistance of up to $800 to qualifying households of those who have received a utility shut-off notice. The program usually is not activated until long cold snaps take place.

NECAC encourages anyone needing heating assistance to apply because this program is an important supplement for many people and families to ensure they stay warm this winter.

Last year, NECAC was awarded more than $1.2 million in direct assistance and $154,000 in utilicare funding. The agency processed 7,711 energy assistance and 5,700 ECIP applications. NECAC provides services to low-income residents of 12 Missouri counties.

This winter, the agency is getting a slight increase in direct assistance at $1.3 million, but has no utilicare funding.

Income guidelines to participate in utility assistance are as follows:

One person — $1,357 per month.

Two people — $1,827 per month.

Three people — $2,297 per month.

Four people — $2,768 per month.