While the winter weather may not be shutting down roads and businesses in Dawson County, it is still a danger to those who are unable to keep necessary heating arrangements.

Ninth District Opportunity, a private, nonprofit organization, is there to help those in Dawson that need heat with its Low Income Heating Assistance Program.

In order to qualify for the service, certain criteria must be met, according to Alice Williamson, community resource coordinator for the nonprofit.

The criteria include:

• Verification of age for every person living in the household

• Verification of all household income for every person living in the household

• Social Security card or proof of citizenship for every person living in the household

• A recent heating bill with the service address and account number printed on it.

With the recent cold weather, Ninth District has been working diligently to make sure everyone stays warm.

"Certainly, when winter weather advisories are issued, we make every effort to work those clients into our busy schedules to serve them before the winter weather occurs," Williamson said.

However, budgetary and time constraints are always concerns, she added. As of Monday, there were 14 slots left for the program.

The assistance offered is a one-time payment of up to $350 for any heating - gas or electric - bill turned into the program office.

The Georgia Department of Human Services helps pay the cost of these bills on behalf of Ninth District Opportunity.

For more information on Ninth District or for questions about the Low Income Heating Assistance Program, call (706) 265-3744.