NASHVILLE (AP) — Individuals who have received help from the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program since last July must wait until Oct. 1 to reapply for benefits.

This is because the funds are now being awarded annually to coincide with the federal fiscal year moving from July 1 to Oct. 1.

Robert L. Matthews, assistant commissioner of the Tennessee Department of Human Services, said his agency is aware of hardships faced by many citizens during the summer. He said his department will assist them in any way possible.

The program is designed to help low-income households pay their home energy bills.