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WINTON – Hertford County DSS reminds county residents that funds are available for families who need emergency help heating/cooling their homes through the Crisis Intervention Program (CIP).

The federally funded program helps households with low incomes who have a life-threatening or health-related emergency due to a lack of heating/cooling. Each household is individually evaluated, and if determined eligible for assistance, payments are made directly to the household’s heating vendor.

The application period is now open. To apply, visit Hertford County DSS at 704 North King Street in Winton on weekdays from 8:30 am until 5 pm. Applications can also be done over the phone by calling 252-358-7830.

Applications will be accepted until funds are exhausted.

To be eligible, a household must:

Reside in Hertford County;

Have at least one U.S. citizen or non-citizen who meets the eligibility criteria;

Have income equal to or less than 150% of the federal poverty limit;

Bring proof a month’s worth of household wages, if any;

Have a turn off or past due account notice or if in need of fuel, verification of heating company and account number; and

Be responsible for your heating cost. If the bill is in someone else’s name, a statement will be needed from him/her that you are responsible for payments towards account.