Buncombe County Government North Carolina

departments & agencies

Economic Services / crisis intervention

40 Coxe Avenue
Asheville, NC 28802
(828) 250-5500

Economic Services: Crisis InterventionThe 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
8:00am - 5:00pm

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 Eblem
  • Referrals

Contact Information

ABCCM
(828) 259-5300

Eblen Charities
(828) 255-3066

For a listing of county-wide programs & services offered by Buncombe County Government, please visit our Services section.