Governor Sonny Perdue recently proclaimed September 14-21 as "Lifeline/Link-Up Week" in Georgia.

Joining the governor for the signing of the proclamation were H. Doug Everett, chairman of the Georgia Public Service Commission (GPSC); Mike Nantz, consumer affairs director for the GPSC; and Bill Edge, GPSC public information officer.

"I am pleased that the governor recognizes the importance of all Georgians staying connected to local resources and emergency services that can improve and possibly save many lives," said Everett. "Access to local emergency services and community resources is vital to our low-income and elderly residents. The commission wants residents to 'stay connected' and is reaching out to those who need phone service but can't afford it."

Lifeline provides a monthly credit of up to $10 off an individual's monthly local service telephone bill; AT&T offers a $13.50 monthly credit. As for Link-Up, it assists with paying up to 50 percent of installation costs, not to exceed $30, while AT&T pays 100 percent.

"We know there are many consumers who qualify for this credit but who are not participating," Chairman Everett said. "We want to get the word out about this valuable program."

As of June 30, 2009, there were 116,728 Georgians receiving these credits. While the number represents a dramatic 43-percent increase over the past three years, there are thousands more who could qualify but are not signed up for the initiative.

To qualify for these credits, an individual must participate in any one of the following programs: Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TNAF), Food Stamps, SSI, Medicaid, Federal Public Housing Assistance, or Low-Income Home Energy Assistance. Receiving a senior citizen's discount from a power or gas company also guarantees eligibility.

Local residents are encouraged to contact their prospective or current telephone service provider to determine whether the company offers Lifeline/Link-Up credits and if so, file an application for assistance. The discounts may be applied either toward one's home phone or cell phone service.