This news item expired on Tuesday, December 24, 2013 so the information below could be outdated or incorrect.
The Crisis Intervention Program (CIP) is a federally funded program that provides assistance to individuals and families who are experiencing a heating or cooling related crisis. The goal of the CIP program is to help families stay warm in the winter and cool in the summer. By doing so, this reduces the risk of health and safety problems such as illness, fire or eviction.
Recently, new eligibility requirements for CIP have been added.
A household that applies must:
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Must be a Buncombe County resident
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Have at least one U.S. Citizen or a noncitizen who meets certain eligibility criteria
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Meet an income test (150% poverty level)
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Be in a heating or cooling related emergency
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Have final notice for electric and gas or 6" oil or less in tank (based on extreme temperatures)
A household must now meet ONE of the additional factors to qualify:
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Medical Risk Documented. Household member is susceptible to current temperatures due to a medical condition. CIP is not allowed if the only concern is keeping medication refrigerated.
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Child in the home under age 6 that is susceptible to current conditions.
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Elderly member in household age 60 or older who is susceptible to current conditions.
Other factors, such as life threatening temperatures, may also be considered to determine CIP eligibility.
To apply for CIP, visit:
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Asheville-Buncombe Community Christian Ministry (ABCCM),
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Swannanoa Valley Christian Ministry (SVCM)
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EBLEN Charities.
Applications will not be accepted at Health & Human Services.
You can apply in person at any of the following locations:
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ABCCM, 30 Cumberland Avenue, Asheville, NC 28801 – 828-259-5300
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SVCM, 101 North Ridgeway Avenue, Black Mountain, NC 28711 – 828-669-9404
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Eblen, 50 Westgate Parkway, Asheville, NC 28806 – 828-255-3066
Need extra help? Call 211 to find out about other services that may be able to help you.