It is hard for a lot of people to imagine being stuck in their home during the cold winter months with no heat, but for many people living in Gordon County that is a huge reality.

The Tallatoona Community Action Partners is providing assistance to low-income families who are struggling to pay their heating bill.

“Last year we assisted 1,651 clients,” said Tallatoona Director, Sheila Callaway. “We probably could’ve served more than that.”

This year Tallatoona has received more than $575,000 in federal funds to assist local families with heating services.

According to Callaway, the funds are awarded on a county-by-county, state-by-state basis, and are based on local unemployment rates and the number of low or no income residents.

The 2010 Energy Assistance Program began on Nov. 2, with the first wave of aid going to those 65 and older.

Callaway said anyone needing assistance who falls into the 65 or older category can call 706-629-2333 to set up an appointment. Once an appointment has been made several items must be brought to the appointment including a social security check stub, social security card, heat bill and proof of age.

On Dec. 1, the program will become available to all age groups. Those under 65 will need proof of their last 30 days of income and their social security card.

Callaway says that once a client has been approved, Tallatoona will then pay the vendors di-rectly. Tallatoona also services any heating vender including gas, electric, propane, wood and coal.

The program is based on income. For example, a single person living alone who make $21,458 annually or less can qualify. For a family of four the maximum annual income would be $41,266.

Callaway said last year the program had funds left over that had to be returned to the state, but she believes the program could have helped more people. The main reasons people don’t apply for help, according to Callaway, is the assumption they do no qualify and pride.

“People (in Gordon County) need the help. And I know some of them might feel embarrassed. But they need to get over that, if you need help, ask for it,” said Callaway.

The program also proved crisis money to those who are in danger of having their heat sources cut off.

“If a person is going to be disconnected they don’t have to wait for an appointment,” said Calla-way. “We just need them to come in right away with their disconnect notice.”

Callaway said that last year Tallatoona saw a big influx in the numbers of those applying for crisis dollars.

The program is confidential, Callaway stresses, and she said that more than 90 percent of all applicants are eligible.

”A lot of people are in this situation. They have working their whole life and now they need a little help,” Callaway said.

To set up an appointment with Tallataoona CAP call 706-629-2333.