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Seniors to get help with bills

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By CARL ORTH

The Suncoast News

Published: April 19, 2009

NEW PORT RICHEY - A fresh injection of federal money will help pay up to $600 toward utility bills for older Pasco County residents struggling to make ends meet during the recession.

The county recently inked a deal under which it is accepting $151,548 in federal aid for the ongoing Emergency Home Energy Assistance program. That's supposed to be enough money to help 233 people who are 60 or older.

"More than ever people need assistance with electric" bills, said Adelaida D. Reyes, Pasco's community services director. "That's the No. 1 request we get."

The number of requests for help has almost doubled compared with previous years, Reyes said.

Applicants with past-due utility bills can get help, according to the memo submitted to county commissioners at their April 7 meeting.

A couple with up to $1,821 in income per month could qualify under the federal guidelines. The income yardstick is calculated at 150 percent of the federal poverty level.

For information about eligibility, call Pasco's human services division at (727) 834-3297.

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