Pearl River Valley Opportunity Inc. will hold a public hearing to review the community service block grant and the low-income home energy assistance program for 2016.

Johnnie Ball, PRVO caseworker, said the hearing is required under law to allow the public to voice their opinions about the grant proposal.

“It’s important for the public to be aware about this and ask any questions they have on the proposal and how the program will impact them and the community,” Ball said.

The grant will provide aid to low-income families, disabled and elderly individuals in need of energy, rental and mortgage payment assistance in Pearl River County, Ball said.

PRVO has provided financial and educational assistance to Pearl River County residents for the past 50 years. PRVO has offices in each of the county’s two municipalities, Ball said.

Paying electric bills or purchasing household items like air conditioners are just some of the ways they assist their clients, the Item previously reported.

The grant will allow both offices to continue providing numerous services to eligible clients, including case management, education, housing, emergency assistance, employment nutrition, participation in community affairs and paying energy bills, according to previous Item coverage.

“We need to get the word out to community residents who need it and let them know what’s available,” Ball said.

The public hearing will be held on July 24 at 4 p.m. inside a county building located on 917 Goodyear Blvd. Representatives from both offices will be available to answer any questions, Ball said.