The Community Action Partnership of Greater St. Joseph began it's winter energy assistance program with unexpectedly large numbers this morning.

The program helps mediate the cost of heating throughout the winter.

Usually the big numbers don't come until november first when the general public can apply for the program. Until then, only those over 60 or those with disabilities can apply for assistance, but this year,people were lining up for the doors to open. So far today, c-a-p has taken in over 50 applications, far more than in a normal year.

Delphia Shanks of CAP, says they are trying to reduce the stigma of seeking this kind of assistance. The program is about helping people who need a little bit of help getting through the winter because of things like medical bills or being laid off.

Last year CAP gave out $1,000,000 to 4,000 families.

Click here to learn more about the program