FOREST PARK, Ga. — The City of Atlanta experienced its first freeze of the fall Wednesday.
People are cranking up the heat with these cooler temperatures, which can send utilities bills soaring.
However, there are options for those in Henry, Fayette, and Clayton counties.
Clayton County Community Services Authority has utility bill relief. Program Director Brooke Chestnut said they got an overwhelming response when they announced the emergency utility relief over the weekend.
"We opened it up that weekend," Chestnut said. "And by the time Monday came around, we were completely filled with our registration."
There were some cancellations. So, if you need help, Chestnut said you can walk in.
Chestnut said it's just a testament to how tremendous the need is.
"This has gone comparatively faster than in the past," Chestnut.
A representative from the state's Public Service Commission said natural gas service cannot be shut off if the temperature is below 32 degrees for a 48-hour period beginning at 8 a.m. Electric service cannot be cut off if the temperature is that low for a 24-hour period beginning at 8 a.m.
If you're struggling, Chesnut said there is help.
"We'd like to lower the energy burden," Chestnut said. "We're paying on gas, or electric bills, propane. We want to make sure that our clients are able to heat their homes during this winter season."
The CSA has been doing it through grants from the Georgia Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) for over 50 years. Chesnut said the program has served more than 10,000 homes last year.
"People will break down in tears. They hug us," Chestnut said.
Starting Dec. 1, CSA is focusing on those 65 and up.
Verline Hoke, 70, understands why.
"The majority of the seniors do not receive a good social security package," Hoke said. "And a lot of them do not have pensions. So, it helps them alleviate the stress of 'should I pay my bill or buy me some food or medicine?'"
Hoke said she's used the program herself.
"It freed up some of my income from paying electric, gas, and water," Hoke said.
Chestnut said there is an income guideline to qualify and you have to be considered low-income. After signing up for an appointment, if you're accepted, you receive a stipend that's based on your income that can be used toward what you owe or as a credit.
Hoke is learning the process so that she can soon help others through CSA too.
"I've always been in an environment professionally where I was able to help people," Hoke said. "So, this is just adding to my resume."
Seniors and people who are medically homebound can set up appointments starting Friday, Dec. 1. All other eligible residents can start applying for the LIHEAP program in January 2024.
Chestnut said CSA also has a food pantry and offers rental and educational assistance. Apply here or call 678-783-8314. They also accept walk-ins at 1000 Main Street in Forest Park.