The Salvation Army began taking phone calls for Heat Aid interviews today, January 11, 2010.  The Heat Aid hotline is 402-898-5966.  The Heat Aid Fund was established by M.U.D. in 1983 and is administered by The Salvation Army.  The Fund has served more than 25,000 older and physically or mentally challenged customers since its inception.    Beginning January 11, the Heat Aid Fund will operate on a year-around basis to provide older and disabled neighbors with greater access to funds for utility bills.  Previously, the program ran for six months out of the year.

Monetary donations can be made through monthly billing statements, on-line at givesalvationarmy.org or mailed directly to The Salvation Army, 3612 Cuming Street, Omaha NE 68131.

The Salvation Army also partners with utility companies outside the M.U.D. service area including Black Hills Energy.  Residents who reside in these areas (outside the Omaha MUD area) can contact The Salvation Army Service Extension Office at 1-800-699-3439 ext. 5885 directly for more information. 

Assistance is also offered year-round.  Residents of Council Bluffs may contact the local Salvation Army for heat assistance by calling 712-328-2088.  Applicants must make their first request for aid through the government programs. 

Those who qualify for assistance must have received a heating service shut off notice; be of age 60 or older, or suffer from a medical disability.  The Salvation Army will also take the applicants' payment history into consideration.