In an effort to help Franklin County residents with the escalating cost of heating their homes during the winter months, Franklin County Commissioners and Franklin County Job and Family Services (JFS) are preparing for the implementation of "Project Warm Up," a one-time heating payment assistance program county for residents.
Project Warm Up is intended to help low-income working families cope with this winter’s high cost for keeping their homes warm.
Effective Jan. 14 through March 31, residents throughout Franklin County can contact the JFS to apply. Program highlights include:
•One-time payment of up to $400 paid directly to the utility company or energy provider
•Eligibility includes anyone with a minor child living in their household and whose income falls between 175 percent and 200 percent of the Federal Poverty Level
•A local telephone information line (614) 719-8734
Franklin County Job and Family Services will mail over 10,000 applications to potentially eligible residents in Franklin County. In addition, applications will also be available at the county’s five Opportunity Centers as well as other neighborhood social service agencies. County commissioners emphasized the importance of such a program.
Franklin County Commission Board President Marilyn Brown stated, "Project Warm Up is a vital service for Franklin County residents. This program is instrumental in helping residents receive assistance that will help them keep their families warm this winter."
"The escalating cost of keeping your home warm is something that everyone is being forced to address this winter," said Commissioner Mary Jo Kilroy. "It hits low income working families particularly hard. We want to help keep children safe and warm."
Under Project Warm Up guidelines, a family of four earning as much as $3,442 a month is eligible for assistance paying their heating utility bill.
"As Board President in 2006, I was proud to bring Project Warm Up forward," said Commissioner Paula Brooks. "It’s a practical program that works to keep children and their families warm and safe during cold months."
Applications will also be available on the county Web site, local libraries, churches, and at the County Community Opportunity Centers.
For additional information the public can call (614) 719-8734.
