SYLACAUGA – An area non-profit organization received funding to help people keep their utilities on in times of emergency.

The Sylacauga Alliance for Family Enhancement received a $25,000 grant from the Utilities Board on Friday. The money will go to the Utility Relief Fund, which awards money to families facing a crisis or who have lost their jobs.

SAFE director Margaret Morton said the program has had a great impact on families who have dealt with crises.

“It’s something that has really made a difference,” she said. “It has helped bridge the gap, these funds.”

Utilities Board members Mike Richard, John Hamm and Brad Porch were at SAFE to present the check. This was the second year the board awarded money for the fund.

Richard said families who receive the funds also get education on how to save money on their utilities.

“There are information and energy efficient kits given to these families also to help control their costs in the future,” he said. “So it’s not just a check.”

Porch added many families in the area were in need during the current recession.

“It’s a hard time for people in the community and we just hope to help them in any way we can,” he said.

Morton said the people awarded the money must show proof of their situation in order to receive money from the fund. The maximum amount given was $250 per family.

“The education piece has been so important,” she said. “We educate people on how to weatherize, how to cut back on utilities consumption so they can better manage their finances. We also encourage them to get engaged in the programs at SAFE, to help them get employed if that is their goal.”