Summer Utility Assistance Appeal
As we enter the Summer Season, it’s imperative that we also turn our attention to those in our community who are facing a harsh reality: the possibility of having their utilities shut off during one of the hottest periods of the year.
How Much We've Raised So Far!
I am writing to you today on behalf of the Harford Community Action Agency to share some troubling news.
Due to an unprecedented surge in utility bill assistance applications, coupled with soaring energy costs and budgetary constraints, essential safety net programs such as the Maryland Energy Assistance Program (MEAP) and Gas Arrearage Retirement Assistance (GARA) have been temporarily suspended by the State of Maryland for the remainder of the fiscal year.
This suspension has placed an enormous strain on our agency and, more importantly, on the vulnerable individuals and families we serve.
In the beginning of this fiscal year, we have received a staggering 8,979 applications for assistance, including 884 new applications within the past month alone. This represents a heart- wrenching 56% increase compared to the previous year.
