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Fund to Help Pay Utility Bills Runs Out of Money

A fund to help low-income households pay their utility bills has run out of money, according to the Durham County Department of Social Services (DSS).

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DURHAM, N.C. — A fund to help low-income households pay their utility bills has run out of money, according to the Durham County Department of Social Services (DSS).

Administrators of the Crisis Intervention Program have spent $882,560.33 allocated by the federal government for this fiscal year, which ends June 30. That level funding was the most ever granted to CIP.

CIP has served 1,918 households since July 1, 2007. DSS officials said rising gas and food prices have created more demand for CIP's help.

“We are hopeful that the NC Division of Social Services will be able to reallocate more CIP funds," DSS Director Sammy R. Haithcock said. "During hard economic times such as these, CIP funds are crucial to help families fill the hardship gap to pay their bills to keep the lights on and heat in their homes."

Emergency Energy Funds are still available for Duke Energy customers who meet certain income guidelines to pay their past-due bills. Duke Energy provides those funds to DSS.

To make an appointment to ask for Emergency Energy Funds, adults with children should call DSS at 919-560-8301. Adults without children should call 919-560-8600.

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