"A little bit of mercy makes the world less cold and more just." ~ Pope Francis, at St. Peter’s Square, March 18, 2013, in his first scheduled public appearance.

On October 23, 2015, Tennessee received $50,309,105 in federal funds to assist lower income families with utility bills for heating and cooling.

These funds are distributed through a program known as "LIHEAP."

Q:What is "LIHEAP"?

A:"LIHEAP" is the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.

Q:How does LIHEAP help low income families?

A:There are 19 designated agencies across Tennessee which distribute these funds to households. Together, these agencies cover all 95 Tennessee counties.

Low income families can apply with the agency serving their county. Eligible households are served on a priority point system. Preference is given to persons who are elderly, disabled, and/or younger than six years old.

Q:How much money can a low income family receive in a year to help with home energy costs?

A:Usually from $300 to $600, applied as a direct credit on the family’s home energy bill.

Q:What is the income eligibility?

A:The 2015 household income eligibility limit for Tennessee LIHEAP is at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty level:

•1 person: $1,471.25 per month or less

•2 persons: $1,991.25 per month or less

•3 persons: $2,511.25 per month or less

•4 persons: $3,031.25 per month or less

For each additional person in the household, add $520 to calculate the monthly LIHEAP eligibility limit.

If you know someone who may qualify, please share this information.

Q:Which agencies distribute these LIHEAP funds?

A:The agencies for counties in this column’s publishing area are:

•Davidson County – Metro Action Commission: (615) 862-8860

•Macon, Smith, Clay, Jackson, DeKalb Counties – Upper Cumberland Human Resource Agency: (931) 528-1127

•Robertson, Sumner, Trousdale, Wilson Counties – Mid-Cumberland Community Action Agency: (615) 742-1113 or 1137, or 453-2243

For agencies serving other counties, go to www.thda.org and type "LIHEAP agencies" in the search box.

James B. (Jim) Hawkins is a general practice and public interest law attorney. This column represents legal information, and is not intended to take the place of legal advice. All cases are different and need individual attention. Consult with a private attorney of your choice to review the facts and law specific to your case. To suggest future column topics, call (615) 452-9200.