MONTGOMERY, Ala. (WDNews) — Low-income residents across the Wiregrass could soon see lower energy bills after Gov. Kay Ivey awarded more than $6.3 million through Alabama’s Weatherization Assistance Program.
The funding will help improve the energy efficiency and safety of qualifying homes across the state, with priority given to households that include older adults, people with disabilities and families with children.
“High energy costs can be a significant burden on people who are already struggling to make ends meet,” Gov. Kay Ivey said. “This assistance allows Alabama families to sustainably lower energy bills while creating a safer and healthier living environment.”
For the Wiregrass, Organized Community Action Program Inc. (OCAP) received $607,148 to provide weatherization services in Barbour, Bullock, Butler, Coffee, Covington, Crenshaw, Dale, Geneva, Henry, Houston, Lowndes and Pike counties.
According to the governor’s office, homes approved for the program receive an energy audit to determine the most cost-effective improvements. Weatherization work can include adding insulation, sealing air leaks around doors and windows, and other upgrades designed to reduce heating and cooling costs while improving home safety.
The grants are administered by the Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs using funds provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services.
“The Weatherization Assistance Program benefits some of the most vulnerable residents in communities throughout the state,” ADECA Director Kenneth Boswell said. “ADECA is pleased to join Gov. Ivey in support of these grants, which will help families reduce the cost of heating and cooling their homes.”
Residents in Houston, Coffee and other eligible Wiregrass counties interested in applying for assistance should contact Organized Community Action Program Inc. to determine eligibility and submit an application.
