With winter approaching, the Low Income Energy Assistance Program for Wasco, Hood River, and Sherman counties is underway.  Mid-Columbia Community Action handles the distribution of one-time payments of federal funds to help pay the energy bills of those who qualify for the assistance.  Community Action executive director Jim Slusher says they have about the same amount of money to distribute as last year, noting that wasn’t enough to help all those who qualified.  Seniors and those with disabilities get first priority, and Community Action is currently processing applications from those groups.  Those who are seniors or have a disability and think they may qualify for energy payment assistance but have not received an application should call Community Action in The Dalles at 541-298-5131 or Hood River at 541-386-4027.  The general public will be able to make appointments to apply for the program beginning on December 1.