EL PASO, Texas (KFOX14/CBS4) — As utility bills climb across the El Paso area, a key program that helps low-income residents keep the lights on is cutting back on how much assistance it can provide — and closing applications earlier than usual.
The Texas Department of Housing and Community Affairs distributes federal Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program funds to local organizations, including Project Bravo, a nonprofit that helps residents cover utility bills. According to TDHCA, the maximum assistance a household can receive is $12,600, but that soon may change.
Paulina Carr reports on El Paso utility bills surge as low-income energy aid program cuts assistance (Credit: KFOX14)
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Laura Ponce, executive director of Project Bravo, said rising utility costs are forcing the agency to reduce assistance per household, so it does not run out of money.
“We’re spending it at such a high rate that we are afraid that we are not going to make it to the end of the year and have those funds available to households to be able to use them,” Ponce said.
Project Bravo reviews what applicants owe on their gas and electric bills, but Ponce said the amounts are far higher than in previous years.
“We look at how much they owe for their gas and electric bill. The difference is very high from previous years; as a result of that, we’re having to reduce the number of future credits,” Ponce said.
Laura Ponce said Project Bravo previously could help people catch up on overdue utility bills and provide additional funds known as “credits “to cover half a year of utility costs.
“Bills are really high; not everyone has enough to pay,” said El Paso resident Randy Rivera.
Now, those future credits have been cut back, and residents can receive up to three months of credits.
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Residents said the higher bills are becoming harder to manage.
“Month to month it’s been getting a little bit more, lately it’s been outrages its been going up to it’s hard to maintain,” said Angel Gallegos.
“If they can fix it and make it a little bit less with the prices, that would be better for all of us,” expressed Carlton Durant
Applications for assistance from Project Bravo are closing earlier this year on November 2nd and must be submitted in person.
Residents can also dial 211 for more assistance or inquire with the organizations below:
El Paso County General Assistance: Emergency rental, mortgage, and utility assistance
(915) 273-3496
915) 298-1107
Society of St. Vincent de Paul: Financial assistance for utilities, rent, and other necessities
(915) 533-4451
The Salvation Army of El Paso: Assistance with rent, mortgage, utilities, and emergency needs
(915) 544-9811
El Paso Electric Bright Hearts Fund: Assistance for overdue electric bills and payment arrangements
(915) 543-5970
(915) 594-5500
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