The Crisis Intervention Program (CIP) provides assistance to low-income households that are in a heating or cooling related emergency and have an income that is below 150% of poverty level.
An eligible household may receive assistance more than one time during the State Fiscal Year (July through June).
The maximum benefit amount per household during the State fiscal Year is $300. During the years in which North Carolina receives "emergency" CIP money from the U.S. Dept. of Health and Human Services, families may receive up to $600 during the State Fiscal Year, with the maximum payment of $300 at any one time.
The program is administered via contract with ABCCM and ELBEN only.
Crisis Intervention Services include:
Program pays for:
- Electric bills
- Deposits
- Fuel Oil
- Kerosene
- Natural Gas
- Propane
- Wood
- Coal
- Heaters
- Furnace Repairs
- Fans
Program Does Not Pay For:
- Rent
- Mortgage
- Water
- Rx (Prescription Meds)
Eligibility Requirements:
A household that applies must:
- Must be a Buncombe County resident
- Have at least one U.S. Citizen or a noncitizen who meets certain eligibility criteria
- Meet an income test (150% poverty level)
- Be in a heating or cooling related emergency
- Requires final notice for electric and gas 6" oil or less in tank-is based on extreme temperatures
- Project Share Program designated for CP&L customers only
Hours of Operation:
Monday through Friday
8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
NOTE:
Applications Will Not Be Accepted At The Department Of Social Services
What to Bring With You
Verification of Income
How are services paid for?
Payments are made directly to the vendors, oil companies, gas companies and electric., etc.
Appointment Procedure
- Apply in person at ABCCM
- Call for appointment at Eblen
- Referrals
For a listing of county-wide programs & services offered
by Buncombe County Government, please visit our Services section.