MOULTRIE — The Southwest Georgia Housing Task Force is inviting local officials and residents to the next Housing Task Force meeting. The Sept. 8 meeting will be held at the central office of the Southwest Georgia Community Action Council, 1001 First Ave. S.W. in Moultrie, at 10 a.m.

Future meetings will rotate within the region to educate local communities and bring greater awareness to the needs of local communities.

“Many communities are not aware that the Southwest Georgia Housing Task Force is a resource for housing education,” said Director Barbara Reddick.

The Sept. 8 meeting will feature Debbie Smiley, Weatherization Program manager for Georgia Environmental Facilities Authority (GEFA).

The Weatherization Program provides funding so that homes are made energy efficient. This may include insulation, caulking, weather stripping, replacement of ventilator hoods and replacement of water heaters.

“Ms. Smiley will be discussing the Weatherization Stimulus Package as it applies to the 13 counties in our region, which includes Baker, Calhoun, Colquitt, Decatur, Early, Grady, Lee, Miller, Mitchell, Seminole, Terrell, Thomas and Worth,” said Debra Davis, weatherization coordinator. “There are approximately 200 Moultrie residents on the waiting list to receive these funds but some of the rules regarding the programs have changed.”

The Southwest Georgia Community Action Council staff will be on hand to provide information about local services. William Weatherspoon, housing and facilities director; Randy Weldon, planning director, Denise Bell, community services coordinator; and Davis will be present. Some topics of discussion will be senior nutrition, heating and cooling programs, and emergency relief. All residents, developers, builders and contractors are invited to attend.

The mission of the Southwest Georgia Housing Task Force is to identify and provide affordable housing solutions through community partnerships for all residents in Southwest Georgia. Contact Barbara Reddick or Lauren Miller at the Southwest Georgia RDC, (229) 522-3552 for more information.