Middle Georgia Community Action Agency opening ‘cooling program’ for those in need

WARNER ROBINS, Ga. — There’s no denying that Georgia summers get hot; the air gets dense with slow-moving humidity, and the sun warms the air into a muggy soup — those who have a shelter to escape into often do so with the intent of cooling under an AC unit of some kind. The hotter it is, the harder those AC units run, the more power they have to use — all snowballing into a higher electricity bill.

Shirley Bryant, case manager at the Middle Georgia Community Action Agency, spoke with The Journal Tuesday to inform Houston County of the organization’s upcoming cooling program. It all kicks off Monday, April 3.

According to Bryant, the program will assist those eligible in paying their electric bill for a specified amount or span of time — the goal is to ensure that low-income homes have access to necessary means of cooling off during the hottest parts of the year. Eligibility is determined by the applicant’s income and household size.

In April, MGCAA is focusing this program on assisting seniors in Warner Robins to combat rising costs against a fixed income. Beginning in May, the program will be opened to the general population.

The whole process begins by visiting the organizations website, www.mgcaa.org, or by calling their automatic system number, (844) 588-1552. You provide the organization with your information and set up an appointment. At the appointment, the Middle Georgia Community Action Agency will determine your eligibility for assistance, and how much they can provide.

This program is one of two put together by the non-profit, both intended to assist lower-income households ensure their physical safety and comfort by paying a portion of the home’s electric bill during the year’s most intense temperatures. During the winter, MGCAA runs a heating program.

Middle Georgia Community Action Agency’s mission is to assist families in the middle Georgia area with financial necessities, such as providing funds for rent to ensure access to shelter, and funds for electricity to ensure access heat in the winter and AC in summer.

Anyone applying for the cooling program should bring with them a picture ID, a copy of your social security card, proof of income and a copy of your electric bill.

HHJ News