Limestone Countians may be eligible for help with their heating costs or employment endeavors, thanks to grants recently awarded by Gov. Kay Ivey.

Almost $3 million was awarded to Community Action Partnership of Huntsville/Madison and Limestone Counties Inc. for residents of Limestone and Madison counties. Through Alabama’s Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, $2.77 million is being distributed among those who need help affording the energy required to heat their homes.

“During the winter, many low-income families are forced to choose between staying warm in their houses or having food on their table and required prescriptions in their medicine cabinets,” Ivey said.

An additional $189,903 has been awarded “for programs that help low-income residents take steps to secure gainful employment and improve their quality of life,” according to a release. These may include job-search assistance, short-term employment skills classes, parenting classes, transitional housing, summer youth programs, financial-literacy programs or emergency food and shelter.

“Community Action Agencies offer services that support low-income families as they work to create a a more stable foundation for a successful life,” Ivey said. “I commend these agencies for their work toward reducing poverty and helping families in need.”

Those seeking assistance with their heating bill should contact their nearest CAPHMLC center. The Athens center can be reached at 256-233-9905 or 409 S. Marion St. between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Mondays through Thursdays or 8 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Fridays.

The Ardmore center can be reached at 256-423-2400 or 26465 First St. between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. Mondays and Tuesdays.

A list of documentation required for an application or appointment can be found online at https://www.caa-htsval.org/services/utilities.html.