TIFTON — In preparation for winter, the City of Tifton has pledged support to the HEAT program once again.

The Tifton City council unanimously moved to contribute to the program at their Oct. 9 meeting, offering support to local residents struggling with paying monthly heating and natural gas bills this winter.

The council has long collaborated with the Heating Energy Assistance Team, and had no reservations doing so again this year to give a helping hand to those in need.

Once the program goes into effect, residents will receive a letter with their utility bills asking them to add a small donation to their monthly payments. These donations will be directed toward assisting families and their fellow man in affording heating, gas, and other such utility bills.