Tuesday, September 15, 2009

Aid for broken AC units

Help available for broken AC units 

by Colton Shone KTAR

Low income households could get their air conditioners fixed or replaced if their unit breaks.
The Arizona Community Action Association is teaming up with the City of Phoenix to let people know they can get help.

"With the heat being to the level that it is right now in the Valley, people are getting in danger by not having their AC working," Cynthia Zwick of the Arizona Community Action Association said. "And often what we find, they have a tendency not to turn the AC on if they are concerned about having to pay other bills."

Zwick said thanks to new stimulus money they'll be able to help 8,000 homes with cooling and heating costs in the next three years. 
Arizona Community Action Association web site at http://www.azcaa. org/

Sunday, September 13, 2009

Free Flu shots to the unemployed

*CVS Minute Clinic and Walgreens -  will give those who are unemployed and looking for work a flu regular flu shot which normally cost $25.   This program starts 09/17/09, and in total 100,000 shots will be given.  You may need a voucher to receive the shot so you can call1(866) 484-8687 for more information.

*Free Maricopa County Prescription Discount Card -  If you do not have any insurance and live in Maricopa County you can get a 20% off prescription discount card.  The cards are available at public libraries, WIC offices or you can call 1 (877) 321-2652.  Most local major pharmacies except the card like Fry's, Basha's, Walmart, Walgreens, Safeway, Sam's Club.

Emergency Food Assistance

*Food Banks - At some part of many peoples lives they find they need help.  With the current economy people who never, ever thought they would need a helping hand now do.   No matter what the reason no one should go without food and that is why there is help here in Arizona.  Go to:  www.azfoodbanks.org for a directory of hundreds of food banks operating in your community today.  click on the 2009 Food Program by county link.

*WIC (Women, Infants and Children) -  If you are a parent or guardian of a child 5 years old or younger you may qualify for a nutriential program that gives vouchers for several gallons of milk, a pound of cheese, boxes of cereal, juice, peanut butter, beans and starting in October fresh fruits and vegetables.  You do not need an appointment.  You can walk in and leave with vouchers the same day.

Utility Assistance in Phoenix Arizona

There are several places to get emergency utility assistance in Phoenix, Arizona and surrounding cities.   I have outlined several below:

* The Salvation Army - Offers APS bill assistance for those demonstrating extenuating circumstances and need.  They have a lifetime assistance help to you of 3 times, so only contact if you really can not pay the bill yourself. (602) 267-4122.

*Phoenix Catholic Charities - Offers utility assistance up to $200 dollars.  This is a loan and it has to be paid back.  You must attend a class first in order to be considered.  (602) 997-6105.  www.catholiccharitiesaz.com.

*DES  (Department of Economic Security) - (LHEAP)  The federal government will pay your utility bill one time if needed.  You must go through DES to apply for this assistance.  www.az.des.gov

*APS - Offers low income family a 40% reduction in cost for those who are eligible and apply.  If you have recently lost your job or your income has decreased significantly over the last year you may want to contact them and apply as it takes 30 to 45 to process the application. www.aps.com