Washington County assistance programs

Help with utility and cooling bills
Washington County's Summer Home Energy Assistance Program is now accepting applications. The agency overseeing the process is Economic Opportunity Agency of Washington County.

The energy bill assistance program provides help with paying electric bills only, including summer cooling bills. There are certain times to apply for aid. Applications are being accepted from 8 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Mondays through Thursdays and from 8-11 a.m. Fridays. Families in need of help need to apply at the Family Resource Center of the Jones Center for Families in Springdale, and they need to go to the first floor center lobby. There is some info that people need to bring, including applicants must bring proof of household income for all members of the family, and they must also bring a copy of their most recent utility bill.

Not all bills are available to receive assistance. The Summer Home Energy Assistance Program is only able to assist eligible households with paying electric utility bills. The Washington County Arkansas Economic Opportunity Agency Inc. is authorized to assist Washington County individuals and families only. The payment that will be provided for electric bills is based on household income and the number of persons who live in the household. In addition, an utility bill crisis program is also available for those who have received a shut off notice from an electric company.

Help paying heating bills and rent
There is good news for people who are struggling. The fact is that there is help out there for those struggling to make their monthly energy bill payments. Several assistance programs and resources are set up across the local area.

One option is the federal government funded is the Low Income Home Energy Assistance program. The number to apply or for more information is 501-682-8726. That program will become available to families needing assistance with their gas or electric bills on January 11th. To apply for aid, you will need proof of your household income, a copy of your utility bill, and a copy of your bank statement.

The local Salvation Army branch is also offering help to families in need. They can provide rent help, enenrgy bill assistance, and even prescription medication. Again, you will have to prove that you do need assistance to get help from this organization. The number for Northwest Arkansas is 479-444-7910. In the River Valley, you can call the Salvation Army at 479-783-6145.