MCCAC Awarded Nearly $550,000 in Utility Bill Payment Assistance

Mid-Columbia Community Action Council (MCCAC) are pleased to announce that they have been awarded nearly $550,000 to assist Hood River, Wasco and  Sherman County residents in keeping current on their household utilities. Thanks to federal funding from Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) through the American Recovery Plan Act (ARPA) and the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP); low-income community members will have access to the resources needed to keep current on their utility bills. 

“This funding could not come at a better time, with the COVID-19 pandemic still impacting households and record-setting heat hitting the region,” MCCAC Executive Director, Kenny LaPoint said. “We are happy to provide this resource to our community members who need help  keeping the lights on and their homes cool.” 

“This infusion of new funding will assist many of our friends and neighbors who are struggling to make ends meet,” according to MCCAC’s press release. “In addition, the record-breaking heatwave has required many families to operate home cooling units above average in order to keep their homes safe and livable. The program will help relieve the burden of the anticipated rise in utility bills resulting from increased air conditioner usage.”

If you or someone you know has a utility shut-off notice or are having difficulty keeping up with utility bills, you can find out more information about the program, including how to apply, by calling 541-298-5131 or emailing energy@mccac.com.