Over 930 households have been assisted by the Energy Program in Wadena County this season, comparing to 841 households receiving help at the same time last year. The grants received range from $100 to $1,400.

If you are having trouble paying your heating bill or electric bill, Energy Assistance can help. Apply now if your have not already applied for the 2009-2010 heating season. This includes the Emergency Benefit/Crisis portion of the program.

Benefits are also available for homeowners experiencing problems with their furnace or heating system. All heat types are eligible. Applicants listing wood as the main heat source will have their grants sent to a supplementary heating source, if applicable, or the electric company.

Those applying for Energy Assistance must provide proof of the last three month’s income. Self employed people must provide their most recent tax return.

The income guidelines are:

Wadena County residents may call the Otter Tail-Wadena Community Action Council, Inc. at Voice/TTY 218-385-2900 to request an application. To call long distance (Menahga, Verndale, Staples exchanges) call 1-800- 450-2900. Otter Tail County residents may call 1-800- 450-2310 to request an application.