By By Kerry Whipple Bean
publisher
With cold weather settling in this week, the East Escambia County Chapter of the American Red Cross has some resources available for those in need of relief.
Director Chris Smith said the chapter has received a donation of several wool blankets available for the elderly and homeless. Anyone in those groups who would like a blanket can call the Red Cross office at 867-3426.
Although the Red Cross does not have a shelter in Escambia County for the cold weather, anyone who needs shelter this week during the frigid temperatures can call the Red Cross office and volunteers will try to arrange transportation to a Pensacola or Mobile shelter, Smith said.
Red Cross is also looking ahead to the rest of the winter, with help available for heating bills through Project SHARE.
The 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 Jan. 12. Appointments will only be taken on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.  Residents in Brewton and Flomaton can set up an appointment by calling (251) 867-3426.
For those who qualify, payments will be made directly to the energy supplier. 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 62 years of age or older or on Social Security/SSI.