St. Mary Community Action Agency will begin accepting appointments for the Liheap Utility Assistance Program on Tuesday, Aug. 16, beginning at 8:30 a.m.

To set up an appointment, call the central office at (337) 828-5703 or 828-5705.

Persons who received assistance in the last six months, February-July, are not eligible at this time. Assistance is only available for 240 persons.

Appointments will be made on a first come, first served basis. These applications will be the last taken until more funding is received.

Due to financial cutbacks on the state and federal level, this program has lost some of its funds when the new program year starts, Oct. 1.

“This means we will not be able to service as many customers due to a shortness of funds,” said Almetra Franklin, CAA chief executive officer. “We encourage everyone to contact your representatives and congressmen to let them know how vital the need is for the LIHEAP program (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program).

To apply the following information is needed:

—Current proof of income (Last 4 paystubs, SSI, SSA, Retirement, VA, Food Stamp Printout—(FS Printouts must be printed out in 30 days)

—I.D. for applicant/Social Security Cards for everyone in household

—Printout of light and gas bills for last 6 months.

—Additional bill or other communication verifying place of residence.