MOBILE, AL, July 11, 2011 - The American Red Cross Alabama Gulf Coast Chapter will begin setting up interview appointments for Project SHARE (Service to Help Alabamians with Relief on Energy), the energy assistance program for low-income elderly or disabled individuals, on Tuesday, July 12, 2011. Please be advised that appointments will only be taken on Mondays and Tuesday (starting July 12, 2011) from 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.  Residents in Mobile County can set up an appointment by calling (251) 544-6101 or (251) 544-6102. Interviews will be on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays beginning July 19, 2011 from 9:00 a.m. – 11:00 a.m.

To qualify for assistance, the family income must be within certain guidelines depending on the size of the household.  In addition, the head of the household must be sixty-two years of age or older and/or is currently on disability (SSI or SSD). Each client must have a current statement (2011) from their physician stating the medical need for continuance of electricity and what medical problems will occur if there is an interruption of service.

As the organization responsible for administering Project SHARE funds, a trained Red Cross representative will interview applicants seeking financial assistance in paying their energy bill.  For those who qualify, payments will be made directly to the energy supplier. Project SHARE was introduced in 1982 through an agreement between Alabama Power Company and the American Red Cross. Since 1984, the Alabama Gas Corporation and 24 other electric cooperatives and municipalities’ have joined the program.

Project SHARE is funded through voluntary pledges made by the customers of various energy suppliers. Please help those in need by donating to Project SHARE through your energy provider.

For more information regarding other programs offered by the Alabama Gulf Coast Chapter of the American Red Cross please contact (251) 544-6100 or visit www.redcrossalcoast.org.

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