Benefits · Emergency Aid

How to apply for Central Florida Community Action Agency LIHEAP (Gilchrist County)

Central Florida Community Action Agency, Inc. (CFCAA) — designated Community Action Agency serving Gilchrist County and broader Central Florida region; administers the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) including crisis-response for shutoffs and weather emergencies; funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services through the Florida Department of Commerce

Who it's for

Central Florida Community Action Agency, Inc. (CFCAA) is the designated Community Action Agency administering the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) for Gilchrist County. CFCAA's LIHEAP provides assistance to low-income households to help pay energy expenses, including crisis relief for emergency situations. The Florida LIHEAP income gate is set at 60 percent of the State Median Income. Senior-headed households receive application priority under federal LIHEAP rules. Applications can be submitted online or by visiting CFCAA's office; processing typically takes up to 45 days. For Gilchrist County seniors who prefer a senior-pathway intake, Tri County Council for Senior Citizens (fl.gilchrist.tccsc_meals_and_senior_center) at 352-463-3160 also serves as a referral point that consolidates with Meals on Wheels and CCE services enrollment.

CFCAA administers Gilchrist County LIHEAP on a first-come-first-served basis — funds can exhaust mid-year. Apply EARLY in the cooling season (typically February-March) and heating season (typically November-December) for the strongest chance of award. Florida LIHEAP uses 60% of State Median Income as the income gate. CFCAA's regional service area extends to Central Florida — Trenton seniors face shorter travel to Gainesville (where CFCAA's main office is located) than peer Dixie or Lafayette residents. SREC Transportation (fl.gilchrist.srec_transportation) coordinates rides to CFCAA intake sites in Gainesville.

What you'll need

Proof of all household income (Social Security award letter, pension statement, pay stubs, SSI award letter)
Current energy bill (electric or gas) and any past-due notices
Photo identification
Proof of Gilchrist County residency (utility bill, lease, or government correspondence)
Documentation of household members and ages (especially seniors, disabled, children under 6 for priority)
For deposit assistance: lease showing required deposit; for crisis assistance: shutoff notice

Where to apply

Apply online: official application

By phone: 352-373-7667

Renewals

annual regular benefit + crisis benefits per program year

Official source →Last verified · June 4, 2026

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Not legal or financial advice. The agency makes the final eligibility decision.