OACAC energy assistance program helps families stay safe during summer heat

Temperatures are climbing and now, an energy assistance program is helping families who are struggling to keep their air conditioning on.

The Ozarks Area Community Action Corporation or OACAC helps about 14,000 families each year through their LIHEAP energy assistance program.

LIHEAP stands for Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. It's become one of OACAS's most popular offerings. LIHEAP is a two part program; There's a one time energy assistance opportunity for families who struggle with utility costs during the winter months. And around this time of year, the summer cooling crisis program is activated to make sure families aren't without power and air during the hottest months of the year.

"With the high summer bills and the high winter bills as well they need a little help so they don't have to take money out of the funds that they use to buy medicine or food, so a lot of families really need the help," said Rick Nivens, LIHEAP administrative assistant.

You can apply by calling (417) 864-3460 or visit https://oac.ac/ to download an application.

The LIHEAP program is funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services and with money from the State of Missouri.