Overview
Community Action Connections (CAC), formally the Benton Franklin Community Action Committee, is the nonprofit organization that administers most of the publicly funded utility and energy assistance programs available to Benton and Franklin County residents. Established in 1966, CAC has spent nearly 60 years helping low-income individuals and families in the Tri-Cities find pathways to stability through more than 42 program contracts and a network of 40+ community partners.
If you need help paying a heating or electric bill in Benton or Franklin County, CAC is the right first call.
Energy Programs Administered by CAC
| Program | What It Covers | Income Limit |
|---|---|---|
| LIHEAP | Heating costs — electric, gas, propane, oil, wood, pellets, or heat in rent | 150% FPL |
| SHEAP | Electric energy needs; open to all regardless of immigration status | 80% AMI |
| Weatherization | Free home efficiency improvements — insulation, furnace tune-ups, air sealing | 200% FPL (homeowners) |
| Helping Hands | Emergency bill help for customers of Benton PUD, Franklin PUD, City of Kennewick, City of Richland, and Big Bend Electric facing disconnection | Varies by utility |
| Benton PUD Disabled Discount | 10–25% monthly bill reduction for households with a disabled member | 225% FPL |
| Franklin PUD Disabled Discount | 30% monthly bill reduction for disabled customers | 125% FPL |
For full program details, eligibility, income limits, and what to bring to your appointment, see the Utility Assistance Programs page →.
How to Apply
Contact CAC directly to schedule an appointment. One application per household per program year. Walk-ins are not accepted for energy assistance, call ahead.
Pasco Main Office
720 W. Court St. (upstairs), Pasco, WA 99301
Phone: (509) 545-4042
Hours: Monday–Friday, 8:00 AM–11:30 AM and 1:00 PM–4:30 PM
Prosser Office
424 6th St., Suite 2, Prosser, WA 99350
Phone: (509) 786-3379
Hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, 9:00 AM–11:30 AM and 1:00 PM–4:00 PM
Facing immediate shutoff? Call (509) 545-4042 right away and mention your shutoff notice — crisis assistance through LIHEAP moves faster than standard heating assistance and is specifically designed for this situation.
Community Action Connections — Full Website | Energy Assistance Overview | Full Utility Assistance Guide → | Washington 2-1-1
FAQ
Do I need an appointment?
Yes, CAC does not accept walk-ins for energy assistance. Call (509) 545-4042 to schedule.
Can I apply for multiple programs in one appointment?
Yes. CAC staff can screen you for LIHEAP, SHEAP, Weatherization, and Helping Hands funds in a single appointment.
What if I don’t speak English?
CAC serves the bilingual Benton and Franklin County community, Spanish-language services are available. Their website is available in both English and Spanish.
Is there help beyond energy bills?
Yes, CAC administers more than 42 programs including rental assistance, food programs, homelessness prevention, and housing stability services. Contact them or visit bfcac.org to learn what else may be available to your family.
