$4 Million in Utility Relief Available for Eligible Families through ARPA

American Rescue Plan Act funding provides relief for Texoma residents

SHERMAN, NOVEMBER 17, 2021 – Eric M. Bridges, Executive Director of Texoma Council of Governments announced today the acceptance of $4.2 million in federal funds for households affected by COVID-19 provided through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA). “This emergency funding is specifically designed to assist low income households meet their immediate energy needs,” stated Mr. Bridges. “When combined with complementary supportive services, these funds will help transition clients beyond their crisis situations.”

The American Rescue Plan was passed into law in March of 2021 to mitigate the spread of COVID-19, provide direct relief to Americans and repair the economy.

“The new American Rescue Plan funds will benefit families who have recently been affected by Coronavirus through infection, unpaid leave of absences and those impacted from lingering long-term symptoms from the virus,” stated Judy Fullylove, TCOG’s Energy Services Director. “There are many people who are not aware of these resources who may qualify for relief.”

TCOG’s utility assistance program includes the co-payment of utilities for a specific period of time while learning ways to conserve energy. Services also include a case management program with the goal of transitioning families off welfare by providing assistance with the cost of expenses such as education, training and other necessary supplies and supportive series.

Households that are income eligible may receive utility assistance with electric, natural gas or propane bills for as long as funds are available. Applicants must be a resident of Collin, Cooke, Denton, Fannin, Grayson, Hunt, or Rockwall counties. If you are not a resident of one the listed counties, contact your local Community Action Agency (CAA) to find out whether emergency assistance funds are available.

For more information and to view eligibility requirements for this program, please click here.

The Texoma Council of Governments is a voluntary association of the local governments in Cooke, Fannin, and Grayson Counties. Established in 1968, the Texoma Council of Governments promotes economy and efficiency in the coordinated planning and development of the tri-county region through its community and economic development activities. Either directly, or through contractors, the Council provides housing, utility assistance, and weatherization services for low-income citizens in the region and assists the elderly through a variety of Area Agency on Aging programs. The Council also facilitates the delivery of grant funding for homeland security and criminal justice.