Warm up in winter with Buncombe County emergency energy assistance programs

The Crisis Intervention Program and Low Income Energy Assistance Program help eligible local families counter the seasonal chill.

Snow on a tree branch with berries

We may not be to snow season quite yet, but winter is on its way.

Photo by AVLtoday

Although the warm air seems to be lingering, winter will be here before we know it — and the skyrocketing energy bills won’t be far behind. For eligible local families, though, there are two Buncombe County emergency energy assistance programs that can help you warm up without breaking the bank.

The Low Income Energy Assistance Program offers a one-time annual payment to eligible families to help with heating expenses. If someone in your household is 60 years or older or is disabled receiving services from the Division of Aging and Adult Services, applications for the program open on Friday, Dec. 1. Any eligible household can apply starting Monday, Jan. 1, and all applications close on Sunday, Mar. 31.

The Crisis Intervention Program helps eligible locals who are in or might soon be in an energy-related emergency, like the health of someone in the household being affected by no heating source. You can apply for either program online.

Not just the high energy bills feeling too close to home? Check out other local homeowner assistance programs.

More from AVLtoday
An Asheville-based nonprofit has announced the new hourly living wage as well as a new starting rate for Pledged Living Wage employers.
Observe the federal holiday with speeches, demonstrations, and service opportunities around Buncombe County.
Make the most of the season without pulling out your wallet.
The cafe is moving to the former Laughing Seed location, opening a full service breakfast and brunch spot.
More than 100 people will embark on The Great Mother March, a 32-day walk from Asheville to Washington, DC, spreading a message of healing and unity.
Support local restaurants during two weeks of good eats.
Dig into Asheville’s must-try pizza shops — from late-night slices to fancy fare and everything in between.
Plus, the brewery plans to open a pizza spot.
Whether you’re plunging into icy water, hopping on the reformer, or basking in red light, wellness in 2026 is about finding what makes you feel good. With so many options popping up around Asheville, we’re sharing where to try these wellness trends.
From crafting to cooking, cornhole to carpentry, you can say goodbye to boredom.