The Coastal Georgia Area Community Action Authority will assist eligible households with heating bills.

Georgia’s heating-assistance program started Nov. 1 for households with homebound and elderly residents age 65 or older. The general public’s program starts Dec. 3. Payments will be made directly to home-energy suppliers.

To participate in the program, a family must meet an income equal to or less than 125 percent of the poverty guidelines as follows: for a one-person household: $20,990; two people: $27,449; three people: $33,907; four people: $40,366; five people: $46,825; six people: $53,283; seven people: $54,494; eight people: $55,705; and for each additional person, add $756 annual income.

Applicants must bring their most current fuel bill or statement of service from a heat provider. They also must have proof of income for all household members for the last 30 days. This may be a check stub or an award letter granting public assistance, Social Security, VA funds or unemployment compensation. Applicants also must bring Social Security numbers and proof of age for all household members.

Anyone wishing to apply for benefits in Liberty County should call 1-866-423-8081 for an appointment. Households will be served on a first-come, first-served basis. The program will close when funds are exhausted.