Community Services

Community Services encompasses several programs that assist low-income families in the Southwest Tennessee area.

Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program

In order to qualify for LIHEAP, households cannot have received assistance this fiscal year and have a total household income below 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Families may be eligible for crisis assistance if the family has a cut off notice and either an elderly or disabled member, or a child under 12 months of age. Presently, LIHEAP has a designated intake period for each county and continues to take applications throughout the year; however, eligible households that cannot be serviced due to a lack of funding are placed on a waiting list until the end of the fiscal year. Interested households should contact their local Community Service Center to fill out an application or click the links below to complete one now.

LIHEAP Application Instructions (PDF format)

LIHEAP Application (PDF format)

Weatherization Assistance Program

This program assists low-income households in their efforts to reduce energy costs and upgrade livability standards by installing weatherization measures to their home. This is available to homeowners and renters. The program is open for enrollment all year, with applicants being awarded points which determine their place on our waiting list in each county. Applicants must have a household income below 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

Weatherization Contractor Application (PDF format)

Crisis Intervention Program

Crisis Intervention provides emergency assistance for payment of rent/mortgage or utilities to prevent eviction or termination of services. Applicants must be below 125% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines, have an eviction notice or utility shut-off notice, and have documentation of an uncontrollable and unforeseeable circumstance. It is our goal to help the family overcome their impending crisis and maintain self-sufficiency. Budget Counseling and Referral Services are also available. Please contact your local Community Service Center for more information.

USDA Commodities

The Southwest HRA Commodity Program is responsible for receiving, storing and distributing USA TEFAP (Tennessee Emergency Food Assistance Program) available foods to low-income families. To qualify, the income level must fall under 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Commodities are distributed three times per year, per county. Interested applicants should contact their local Community Service Center.

Homeless Assistance Program

Provides assistance to homeless families in the City of Jackson. We operate a shelter facility with two houses used for temporary shelter, plus two off-site houses used for transitional housing. Supportive and essential services are provided including referrals, budget counseling and employment assistance. Homeless prevention services are also available to families in danger of eviction, including assistance with rent. Applicants should contact the Homeless Shelter Office at 731-427-2147 for more information.