Financial Empowerment
Financial Empowerment
Financial Empowerment
FIRC’s Financial Empowerment program focuses on working intentionally with people to overcome the challenges of the high cost of living in Summit County. The purpose of our program is to assist with goal setting, reviewing your financial journey, and establishing connections to community resources. Our program includes housing scholarships, financial wholeness planning, utility assistance, and more. Furthermore, we provide education and support to ensure your family’s basic needs are met to help you thrive. To engage in any of our programs call (970) 262-3888 and schedule an appointment or utilize our referral form and we will reach out.
How Financial Empowerment Appointments Work

Call FIRC
Intake coordinators assess client needs and make referral to program

Case management
If accepted into the scholarship the client will receive notice through email, and receive intensive case management for six months. For utility appointments the client will meet with the case manager in person

Scholarship Clients
Clients in the Housing Justice Scholarships will have responsibilities they need to fulfill to stay in the program

Follow-Up
A case manager will follow-up on your progress and determine next steps with you
The Community Emergency Rental Assistance (CERA) Application
If you are experiencing an emergency, fill out the application below to be considered for a one-time rental assistance stipend. Priority is given to those that have never received assistance before.
Housing Justice Scholarship
Welcome to our Housing Justice Scholarship. Before proceeding with your application, we kindly ask that you carefully review all the requirements and responsibilities outlined. Your participation is greatly appreciated, and by confirming your willingness to actively engage, you are contributing to the success of this initiative.
Energy and Utility Assistance
LEAP (Colorado Low-income Energy Assistance Program):
Eligible participants experiencing a heat emergency, such as running out of propane, natural gas shut offs or failing heating systems may be eligible for expedited processing of their application. Apply online or call 1-866-432-8435 for more information.
Affordable Connectivity Program:
Provides discount of up to $30 per month toward internet service for eligible households. A household is eligible for the Affordable Connectivity Program if the household income is at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines. Apply Now.
Energy Outreach Colorado (ECO) – Bill Payment Assistance:
***Provide*** bill payment assistance to households who are behind on their energy bills and are at risk of not having home energy. Payments are made directly to a local utility or fuel company.
EOC – Community Solar Gardens:
This program connects limited-income renters and homeowners with community solar gardens to receive credits towards their energy bill. To qualify, the household income must be at or below 80% of your county’s area median income.
Other Resources
FIRC partners with nonprofits, local and state government programs and other organizations and businesses. If there is a need for a service that FIRC does not provide, we will do our best to help you locate assistance elsewhere through referral and advocacy. For assistance, call our front desk at: 970-262-3888.