Dallas County Agency Benefits from Funding to Aid the Elderly
A prominent organization with connections to Dallas County has been selected to receive a significant grant, of close to $1 million. This grant is designed to aid elderly residents and those living on low income across the state, by providing funds to weatherize their homes, thus leading to reduced energy costs. This initiative is aligned with the objectives of Alabama’s Weatherization Assistance Program, a state-wide effort that seeks to enhance the energy efficiency and safety measures of eligible homes.
The priority for this program is to serve individuals with disabilities, elderly people, and low-income families with children. Central Alabama Regional Planning and Development Commission, a key organization that supports numerous counties including Autauga, Chilton, Dallas, Elmore, Macon, Perry, Russell, and Shelby, is set to receive $763,542 as part of this initiative.
In the words of Gov. Ivey, “In the midst of the hot Alabama summer months, elderly, disabled, and low-income residents on fixed incomes often find it challenging to cover their utility bills while staying cool and comfortable. These grants will enable home improvements that will significantly reduce the energy costs for those who qualify for assistance.”
The grant also provides for an energy audit to be performed for each home that is deemed eligible for weatherization assistance. This will identify the most cost-effective measures to increase energy efficiency. Typical improvements include installing extra insulation in the attic, walls, and floors, sealing air leaks around doors and windows, making necessary repairs or tune-ups for air conditioning and heating units, and replacing traditional incandescent light bulbs with high-efficiency ones. Not only do these measures help lower energy bills, but they also mitigate potential fire risks and other safety hazards.
Governor Ivey has awarded these grants to 13 community agencies distributed throughout the state. These agencies, in turn, oversee the program at the local level and process applications from individuals who are seeking assistance. These latest grants are an addition to $4.4 million in Weatherization grants that were awarded earlier this year.
The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs (ADECA) is managing these grants, using funds provided by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and the U.S. Department of Energy. Kenneth Boswell, Director of ADECA, voiced his support for the Weatherization Assistance Program saying, “ADECA joins Gov. Ivey in supporting those who need it most. Our partnerships with these community agencies ensure that many underserved residents receive help in preparing their homes to stay cooler during the hottest part of the year, both now and in the future.”
