I was told that I because I was collections I could not qualify for assistance and would have to call the lawyer on my case. How is that?? Never heard of this in my life.

Who told you that blaqbeautie1?? The utility company??? They will bully you to get their $$. Call HRA and get an appt ASAP. The lady above is right, you can get help regardless of the status of your bill. The utility company will issue you a NEW account . P.S. ENERGY ASSISTANCE APPOINTMENTS START IN AUGUST!!! Call ahead please- I know how it feels to go thru the bs of shutoffs etc, don't take no for an answer and stick to your payment plan, you Will be good!! Best of luck to you

Not so they shut my light and Gas last year cause lack of payment and the energy assistance program had help me since don't give up try again.

And when you call the HRA THEY CONTACT GAS AND ELECTRIC CO TO STOP YOU FROM SHUT OFF

That's not true!