Residents of Asheville coming together to support families in need with essential heating supplies this winter.
As the winter chill sets in, Asheville residents band together for urgent heating assistance following Hurricane Helene’s devastation. Local organizations, particularly the Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministry, launch programs to provide essential support to families in need, offering blankets, utility bill assistance, and more. With new initiatives like the Disaster Energy Assistance Program, vulnerable populations have resources to combat the cold and prevent heating shut-offs during this harsh season. Applications open in January, ensuring timely help for those affected.
As the cold winter months approach, many families in Asheville and Buncombe County are feeling the chill—not just from the dropping temperatures, but from the aftermath of Hurricane Helene’s devastating blow. In response to the urgent need for heating assistance amid this winter season, local organizations are stepping in to provide much-needed support to those affected.
The havoc wreaked by Hurricane Helene has left many without proper heating, and this winter could be particularly harsh for vulnerable populations. Thankfully, the Asheville Buncombe Community Christian Ministry (ABCCM) has been at the forefront with its Safe & Warm program. Since 1969, this initiative has worked tirelessly to ensure families with small children, the elderly, and veterans can stay warm during the frigid months. The program provides essentials ranging from warm blankets to assistance with heating utility bills.
For those in dire straits, the Safe & Warm program seeks to prevent heating utility shut-offs, reconnect heating services, and fill oil or propane fuel tanks. This program is a beacon of hope for families grappling with the cold and trying to keep their loved ones cozy. If you find yourself or someone you know in a freezing situation this winter, it’s crucial to reach out and apply for assistance.
But that’s not all! Buncombe County residents affected by the hurricane can also take advantage of the newly rolled out Disaster Energy Assistance Program. Designed to assist those whose heating services are damaged, disconnected, or at risk of being shut off, this program covers a wide range of needs. Whether it’s a broken heating system that requires repair or utility bills that threaten to spiral out of control, help is on the way.
To be eligible for this program, applicants need to be Buncombe County residents and demonstrate a household income at or below 60% of the State Median Income (SMI) for 2025. The North Carolina General Assembly has allocated a whopping $9 million to ensure survivors of Helene get the help they need. Plus, this program accommodates those needing utility assistance or repairs/replacements without a benefit cap—making it a valuable resource during these troubling times.
Starting January 2, 2024, households can begin applying for both the Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) and Disaster Energy Assistance. For those interested, applications are available online and in person at 40 Coxe Ave., Downtown Asheville, from Monday to Friday, between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. You can also reach out by phone at 828-250-5500 to navigate the process.
The North Carolina Disaster Case Management Program is also in place to support Hurricane Helene survivors, allowing them to develop personalized recovery plans tailored to their unique situations. Eligible households can apply for disaster energy assistance starting January 15, 2024, focusing on restoring or continuing heating services following the disaster.
This Disaster Energy Assistance will remain available until funds are exhausted, helping eligible low-income households meet their heating needs. The program is open to households with at least one U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen residing there. Furthermore, the Crisis Intervention Program specifically assists individuals or families facing heating or cooling crises, ensuring that those in the most precarious situations find relief promptly.
For residents applying in person, free parking is conveniently available at the designated community services office, so you don’t have to worry about additional costs while seeking assistance. This winter, don’t hesitate to look out for yourself or others in the community, as multiple programs have been set up to ensure everyone has the chance to stay warm!
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