Annual funding for the Federal Low Income Energy Assistance Program has increased by an estimated 40 percent this year.

That means more money is available to help families pay their heating and utility bills  this year through Oregon Coast Community Action.

All eligible households seeking assistance through Community Action are required to sign up on the general waiting list. The waiting list will be open for enrollment starting today. To place a name on the list, call 888-7056.

Community Action also is expanding its community outreach efforts and offering free energy education workshops, which can provide tips and tricks to save as much as $200 a year on electric bills.

Free workshops can be scheduled or requested by calling John Misterly, 888-7098.

The Energy Services Division of Community Action is partially funded by the Federal Low Income Energy Assistance Program, Oregon Housing & Community Services, Pacific Power and utility vendors in Coos & Curry counties.