Low income energy application deadline near

Wahkiakum residents who have received LIHEAP or Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program funds in the past, or who think they may be eligible, must call to make an appointment on November 16.

People who qualify receive funding for electricity, firewood or heating oil.

The federal program, administered by Lower Columbia Community Action Program (CAP) has reduced by half, Jackie Jones, Wahkiakum Community Outreach Coordinator said.

Longview residents were asked to go to the CAP office on Nov. 15 to stand in line for appointments “first come first served, CAP manager Alan Rose said.

LIHEAP funds earmarked for Wahkiakum residents have been set aside, and CAP workers will come to Cathlamet to Wahkiakum County Health & Human Services office in January, February and March as they did last year, according to Chris Holmes, Wahkiakum Human Services Director.

The program is income-based, serving seniors and disabled people, whose income is at or below 125 percent of the federal poverty level.

Last year, CAP received $738,000 for the program, but this year funding is $422,000.

Holmes said staff called CAP and made arrangements for Wahkiakum County residents to be able to telephone and make an appointment to qualify.

“We think it’s unreasonable to have to go in and wait for an appointment, as just the first part of the process,” he said.

Wahkiakum County residents may go to the CAP office at 1526 Commerce, Longview, in person on November 15 or call on November 16 to make an appointment, Jones said.

People who need transportation may call Wahkiakum On The Move for a bus schedule. For further information or to make an appointment call CAP at 360-425-3430. For information on bus schedules call 360-795-8630.