Press Release 1/20/10

For immediate release

TO: News Desk, Assignment Editor

FR: Ron Hardin, Communications Manager

SNAP

3102 W. Fort Wright Drive, Spokane WA 99224

509-456-7111 ext.242; hardin@snapwa.org

Cell phone 993-7143

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Energy Assistance at Record Levels

Demand for energy assistance in Spokane County has peaked at an unprecedented level as appointment totals reached 10,531 this week. SNAP continues to schedule appointments by phone and on the internet.

“We have never seen such high numbers so early in our energy season,” said Margaret Belote, Director of the Energy Assistance Program. “Our phone lines continue to be extremely busy with people seeking help.”

SNAP phone lines are open on Tuesdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and Thursdays from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. The Tuesday-Thursday schedule will continue until funds are spent. Web appointments are available on Wednesdays at www.snapwa.org

Since October 25^th of last year, SNAP has spent $3,255,906 to serve the needs of Spokane County residents seeking energy assistance. Additional help for those with shut-off notices and other emergencies totaled $268,262 more dollars.

Households keeping warm with wood were also served through this program. 184 households received a cord of wood with a total value of $36,800.

“The economy has caused so many families to seek help for the first time. We are assisting a significant number for the first time ever,” Belote continued.

Last year, SNAP distributed help to 13,880 households in Spokane County with a dollar value of $8,860,037.

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About SNAP: SNAP connects and provides access to resources which creates opportunities, with dignity, for low income people.