A grant is now available to low-income and elderly Covington County residents to weatherize their home.

Gov. Robert Bentley’s office announced Monday that the Organized Community Action Program Inc., which covers Barbour, Bullock, Butler, Coffee, Covington, Crenshaw, Dale, Geneva, Henry, Houston, Lowndes and Pike counties was awarded $107,916 as part of a $950,000 statewide grant.

Bentley awarded the grants to 16 community agencies.

The grants will support Alabama’s Weatherization Assistance Program, which pays contractors to improve the energy efficiency and safety of homes that qualify. The program gives priority to those with disabilities, the elderly and low-income households with children.

“High energy bills can be difficult for Alabamians with limited resources,” Bentley said. “The weatherization program saves energy and lowers utility bills for our most vulnerable residents.”

County OCAP Coordinator Liz Seay said an energy audit is conducted of each home that qualifies for weatherization assistance to determine the most cost-efficient measures. “Common improvements include installing extra insulation in the attic, walls and floor; sealing air leaks around doors and windows; repairs or tune-ups for air conditioning and heating units; and replacing incandescent light bulbs with high-efficiency compact fluorescents,” Seay said. “In addition to lowering energy bills, the improvements can reduce the risk of fire and other hazards.”

The Alabama Department of Economic and Community Affairs administers the program from funds made available by the U.S. Department of Energy.

Seay said those who own their own home or who are buying are eligible to apply for funding.

To apply, contact the OCAP office at 334-428-2660.