Press Release 1-9-09

For immediate release

TO: News Desk, Assignment Editor

FR: Ron Hardin, Communications Manager

SNAP

2116 E. First Avenue, Spokane WA 99202

509-456-7111 ext.242; hardin@snapwa.org

Cell phone 993-7143

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SNAP Energy Assistance Exceeds $2.5 Million Dollars

Despite challenges caused by holiday closures and weather related problems, SNAP has allocated over $2.5 million dollars in energy assistance to those in need in Spokane County. This money has been distributed since the current program began during the first week of November, 2008.

“There’s still considerable money available to assist those who are unable to pay their energy bills,” according to Margaret Belote, Director of SNAP’s energy assistance program. “We expect to have funds available well into April and, possibly, May.”

Those who are unable to make a connection on SNAP’s energy assistance line should continue to be patient. Appointments are scheduled by calling 242-2376 on Tuesdays and Thursdays. A limited number of appointments are also established online at www.snapwa.org every Wednesday.

Over 5,000 households in Spokane County have received help through January 9, 2009. This includes 27 homes that have had their furnace repaired or replaced. An additional 128 households have received free wood, if wood is their primary source for heat.

SNAP urges those with outstanding bills to contact their utility to advise them that they are attempting to reach SNAP to resolve the past due energy payment.

Those with shut off notices should immediately call their nearest SNAP office to arrange a priority appointment.

Since Christmas and New Years Day were on Thursday, appointments could not be made on those days. Spokane’s record snowfall closed SNAP offices on Thursday, December 17, further delaying the energy program.

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About SNAP: SNAP connects and provides access to resources which creates opportunities, with dignity, for low income people.