The Comprehensive Energy Assistance Program (CEAP):

Combines education and financial assistance to help low-income consumers reduce their utility bills. Services include utility payment assistance for electric, natural gas, and propane. CCSCT assigns priority to households with the lowest income and highest energy costs. Priority is also given to vulnerable individuals, including older adults, persons with disabilities, and families with children five years of age or younger.

Utility Assistance Component:

Provides financial help to eligible low-income households to reduce home energy costs based on the previous 12-month billing history. Households with a vulnerable priority member may receive assistance up to their allocation limit. Households with non-vulnerable members may receive up to six months of assistance.

Crisis Assistance Component:

Provides assistance with utility bills when households have lost service or are in immediate danger of losing service, provided they meet one of three conditions: extreme weather conditions (applicable during June through September and November through February), a presidentially or governor-declared disaster, or a life-threatening crisis. Service and repair of heating and cooling appliance components up to $9,000 can only be made during these defined crisis situations.

Payments are made directly to the utility company and do not cover secondary fees such as water, sewer, trash collection, security lighting, disconnect or late fees, deposits, or returned check fees.

To qualify, the household annual income must be at or below 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Priority is placed on households with a high energy burden, older adults (aged 60 and over), individuals with disabilities, and families with children aged 5 or younger. Applicants must reside within Bandera County and provide proof of gross income from the past 30 days. 

Click here to apply for services.