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Amid tough times, county targets food, energy needs
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Published: September 2, 2009
With two programs currently accepting applications, the Iredell County Department of Social Services is making strides toward helping those struggling financially.
"We do want people to access all the programs they qualify for," said Linda Bledsoe of Social Services.
Noting that Social Services offers various programs "every year to assist families in need," Bledsoe said applications for two vital programs – the Emergency Assistance Program and the September distribution of surplus food – are currently being accepted by the department.
The Emergency Assistance Program provides monetary help for rental and utility needs for eligible families throughout Iredell County. Those individuals needing assistance can submit an application at the Iredell County Department of Social Services in Statesville, 549 Eastside Drive, on weekdays between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m.
"It's essential for people to have the basics," added Bledsoe, mentioning the importance of a roof over one's head, utilities for cooking and hot water for bathing.
Food, she said, also remains a priority with the department.
With the September distribution of government surplus food less than 10 days away, on Sept. 11, the Statesville office of Social Services has begun accepting applications during weekday business hours.
An announcement from the department notes that only those individuals not receiving food stamps need to apply. "Food stamp recipients should receive a precertification form by mail during the first week of September and will not need to file another applications," the release states.
In Mooresville, the food distribution will be Sept. 11, at the War Memorial Building on North Maple Street, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m., or until the supply is depleted.
In Statesville, distribution will also be held Sept. 11, from 10 a.m. to 12 p.m., or until the supply runs dry, at the Bentley Community Center on Wilmington Avenue.
And although both of these programs are held each year, Bledsoe said Social Services has seen an increased demand from Iredell County residents.
"The volume has been very heavy for all of our programs," she said Tuesday. "At this particular time, we seem to have an increasing demand for these programs because the economy is so bad."
Programs such as these two utilize budgeted monies, she added. Once those funds are exhausted, Social Services can no longer offer them in the budgeted year.
However, assistance such as the Crisis Intervention Program – a heating and cooling-related program – "get reallocations periodically throughout the year once the money is gone."
Iredell County Department of Social Services conducted this program in early- and mid-August, but funding dollars ran out last week, said Sandy Morrow with the department. Morrow noted CIP will accept applications again in the future for those requiring immediate assistance with heating and cooling needs.
For more information, contact the Iredell County Department of Social Services at 704-873-5631.
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