Special funds to assist families in paying utility bills are now available through an organization serving Southwest Mississippi.

The Southwest Mississippi Opportunity Community Action Agency will provide assistance on a first-come first-served basis to qualifying families.

A person or family must have a child under 18 years of age living in the household, and the electric or gas bill must be in the name of the person making application for assistance.

Household income must be less than or equal to 150 percent of the income guidelines of $12,525 for a family of one; $16,875 for a family of two; or $21,225 for a family of three. Add $4,350 for each additional family member.

Applicants must have with them proof of all current household income, proof of all current household bills and the Social Security card and proof of birth of all household members.

In Adams County assistance will be available at Zion Chapel African Methodist Episcopal Church, corner of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. and Jefferson streets.

For an appointment or for more information, applicants should call Minnie B. Dinelli or Clemteen Youngblood at 601-304-1172 or 601-304-1822 or toll-free at 800-250-7730.

These special utility funds are available until April 30.