The Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency (UCHRA) has received an additional $614,802 in Weatherization Assistance funding for low-income consumers, according to UCHRA Executive Director Phyllis Bennett.
The Tennessee Department of Human Services has informed UCHRA that funding for its Weatherization Assistance Program has been increased to $1,012,288, an increase of $614,802 above its original allocation for the year that ends June 30, 2009. The increase in funds will allow UCHRA to weatherize approximately 260 homes in the 14-county area.
In Cannon County, approximately 9 homes (an increase of 5) will be weatherized expending $25,481. Bennett encouraged individuals who meet program guidelines to apply for Weatherization Assistance Program assistance this year, even if they have not previously been served. The increased funding is the result of actions taken by Congress to assist low-income families during the current economic crisis.
The Weatherization Assistance Program provides basic insulation and weatherization measures to homeowners and renters to assist them in reducing energy costs while safeguarding their health and safety. Licensed contractors perform the work. To qualify for assistance a household’s income must not exceed 125% of the US poverty level. For example, a family of four can earn a monthly household income of up to $2,208.33.
Priority for service is based upon a point system. Points are awarded based upon each household’s percent of Federal Poverty Guidelines (125% maximum). Households with vulnerable household members receive additional points for such criteria as having an elderly member (60+), a disabled member, children less than 6 years of age, a member referred by Adult Protective Services, six or more household members, and having been on the waiting list for more than one year. First priority for service is given to households with the highest total points, and UCHRA works down the priority list until all available funds are spent in the county, according to Lee Webb, UCHRA Community Services Director.
All UCHRA county offices are accepting WAP applications between the hours of 8:00 am and 4:30 pm Monday through Friday. Cannon County UCHRA is located at 301 West Main Street, Adams Memorial Building, Room 302, and the telephone number is (615) 563-2916