Winter’s cold weather is often times a financial shock to many when they see their energy bills. For those who are elderly and on a low, fixed income, or those who are disabled, that shock of high energy costs could be debilitating.

For those individuals though, there is help.

The Black Belt Chapter of the American Red Cross will begin accepting applications for Project Share, the energy assistance program that provides assistance to the low-income elderly and disabled individuals, on Monday, Jan. 10.

In a release late last week, the Red Cross chapter, Dallas County residents can make an appointment with the Black Belt office in Selma by calling 874-4641. Walk-up appointments are not allowed, the chapter said, only telephone appointments will be honored.

Funds will be distributed to qualified individuals until funds are exhausted and will be disbursed on a first call basis.

According to the release, the Red Cross chapter said a 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.

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 at least 62 years of age or older and receiving a disability check.

Project Share is funded through voluntary pledges made by customers of participating energy suppliers.