housing & utility support

Various grants as available to those who qualify for short-term rental or mortgage assistance. Contact us for more information.

OPALCO offers energy assistance to its members when they are challenged to pay their electric bills. Energy Assist provides a bill credit every month based on household size. Members apply online or through the Orcas Community Resource Center – and must re-enroll each April.

A program for those needing extra assistance during hardship. You must be an active residential member of OPALCO for the 4 months prior to application. Applications for Project Pal are coordinated directly with the Orcas Community Resource Center. Contact Cheryl at 360-376-3184 or cheryl@orcascrc.org. 

This seasonal program assists with heating expenses for qualifying households. Contact Cheryl at 360-376-3184 or email cheryl@orcascrc.org for more information. 

Weatherization services focus on attic, floor and wall insulation, reducing drafts, heating system cleaning and safety inspection and ventilation to improve a home's energy efficiency. Available for both homeowners and renters with landlord permission. Contact Cheryl at 360-376-3184 or email cheryl@orcascrc.org. 

Lifeline is a program to make communications services accessible to low-income consumers in Washington State. Lifeline provides subscribers a discount on monthly telephone service, broadband Internet access service, or voice-broadband bundled service purchased from participating providers.