Help offered from the Central Savannah River Area Economic Opportunity Authority
The Central Savannah River Area Economic Opportunity Authority (CSRA EOA) is one of Georgia's larger community action agencies, covering 14 counties stretching from Augusta west to Wilkes County and north toward the South Carolina border. This page covers what CSRA EOA currently offers and how to reach the right office quickly.
Its regional reach sets it apart from county-based agencies — if you live in one county and work in another, or recently moved within the region, you likely still qualify. The agency operates Neighborhood Service Centers in each county as local entry points, so you don't necessarily have to travel to Augusta to get help.
Utility - energy assistance (LIHEAP)
CSRA EOA administers the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) for the region, which can help with electric and gas bills for eligible low-income households. Funds are federally sourced and limited — they tend to go faster in winter months when demand peaks. The agency's Greene Street office in Augusta operates as one of the few year-round LIHEAP intake points in Georgia, which matters if you need help outside the typical heating season.
To reach the energy assistance office directly, call 706-724-0701. Income must fall within federal guidelines; priority is given to households with elderly members, young children, or someone with a disability.
Weatherization
The Weatherization Assistance Program provides free energy efficiency improvements to income-eligible homes across all 14 counties — insulation, air sealing, heating system repairs, and related measures. The program has operated continuously since 1976 and prioritizes elderly residents, people with disabilities, and families with children. Income cannot exceed 200% of the federal poverty level. An appointment is required; field staff may not be in the office. Contact weatherization directly at 706-945-1616 or [email protected]. An online application is also available through the agency.
Marion Barnes Resource & Referral Center (housing crisis)
For Augusta-Richmond County residents facing homelessness or housing instability, the Marion Barnes Resource & Referral Center functions as the region's centralized intake point. It operates in partnership with Augusta Housing and Community Development and the local Continuum of Care for the Homeless, coordinating access to shelters, transitional housing, and support services. This is the right first call if you're facing eviction with nowhere to go or need a shelter referral in the Augusta area. Reach them at 706-724-8588. Or find other sources of rental assistance in the Richmond and Augusta region.
Veteran services (SSVF)
CSRA EOA's Supportive Services for Veteran Families (SSVF) program provides financial assistance and case management to low-income veteran households who are homeless or at risk of losing their housing. Veterans must have an honorable discharge, must be at or below 80% of Area Median Income, and must be in a position to maintain stable housing after receiving help.
Service area for veterans is broader than the standard 14 counties — it also includes Candler, Effingham, Greene, Hancock, Johnson, and Washington Counties. The Fort Eisenhower (formerly Fort Gordon) presence in the Augusta metro means this program sees significant demand; contact the main intake line at 800-890-0493 to be routed to veteran services staff.
Housing counseling and homeownership (HOPE program)
CSRA EOA's HOPE program provides HUD-certified housing counseling across the region, including one-on-one pre-purchase counseling, homebuyer education workshops, financial literacy classes, and foreclosure intervention. If you're behind on your mortgage and at risk of foreclosure, a counselor can help you work through your options — loan modification, repayment plans, forbearance — and serve as a liaison with your lender. Workshops and counseling are available in Burke, Richmond, Screven, and other counties in the service area.
Way Home matched savings program
The Way Home is a first-time homebuyer matched savings program for residents of Burke, Columbia, Richmond, McDuffie, Warren, and Wilkes counties. For every dollar a qualified participant saves toward a down payment, the program contributes a $2 match. Participants also complete homebuyer education and home maintenance training. As of early 2026, the program is not accepting new applications. Check back or call the main number for updates.
Neighborhood Service Centers and financial assistance
Each county in CSRA EOA's service area has a Neighborhood Service Center that serves as a first contact for families facing eviction, utility shutoffs, or food insecurity. Emergency financial assistance at these centers is funded through the federal Community Services Block Grant (CSBG) and varies by location depending on available local resources.
When funds are depleted, staff can connect you with the agency's Emergency Support Network — a coordinated referral system linking to regional charities and churches. Start with the main intake line at 800-890-0493 or visit the Greene Street office in Augusta to be routed to your county's center.
How to reach CSRA EOA
The main office is at 1261 Greene Street, Augusta, GA 30901. The central intake number — which can route you to any county's Neighborhood Service Center or the appropriate program — is 800-890-0493. The energy assistance line (LIHEAP) is 706-724-0701. Weatherization inquiries go to 706-945-1616. For housing crisis or homeless services, call the Marion Barnes Center at 706-724-8588.
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