Nikema Williams

Member of Congress

Heating Assistance with LIHEAP

It’s getting cold outside, and for families in need of heating or cooling assistance, the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is here to help. This federally funded program provides support to low-income households to manage their energy bills, reducing risks like illness, fire, or disconnection. Applications are accepted on a first-come, first-served basis through local Community Action Agencies, so it’s important to apply early before funds run out. To apply, you’ll need proof of income for the past 30 days, Social Security numbers for all household members, your most recent gas and electric bill, and proof of citizenship or legal immigrant status. Keep in mind that households with an energy bill credit of $1,000 or more are not eligible for assistance. For more information, call 1-404-657-3426 or find your local agency at georgiacaa.org/membership/agency-finder. Don’t wait—apply today to stay safe and warm this season!

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RecruitMilitary Veterans Job Fair

My office will host our final Congress in Your Community event of the year on October 11th from 11 AM to 3 PM at the RecruitMilitary Job Fair. This is a unique opportunity for military veterans, transitioning service members, and their spouses to connect with top employers offering government, remote, and private-sector opportunities. With resources designed to navigate the job search process, RecruitMilitary is committed to empowering the military community to successfully transition into meaningful civilian careers. Don’t miss this chance to take the next step in your professional journey!

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Program to Reduce Homelessness in Dekalb

DeKalb County CEO Michael Thurmond announced a $13 million initiative to reduce homelessness and prevent evictions. The DeKalb County Integrated Community Care Initiative, funded by the U.S. Treasury’s Emergency Rental Assistance program, partners with nine nonprofits to provide housing for the homeless and rental and utility assistance for those facing eviction. The program prioritizes low-income households, especially those earning less than 50% of the area median income or with members unemployed for over 90 days. Residents can apply through the DeKalb Integrated Community Care Initiative hotline at 404-371-NEED (6333), available Monday-Friday, 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. The program runs until June 30, 2025, continuing DeKalb’s efforts to support families impacted by the housing crisis.

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Grants for Better Recreational Opportunities

The Atlanta-Fulton County Recreation Authority (AFCRA) is now accepting grant applications for initiatives that enhance recreational experiences for Atlanta and Fulton County citizens. Applications are open from October 1st through December 31st, with decisions announced in March. To apply, submit a Request for Grant and Proposal (RFGP) via the online portal by December 31st, including details about your organization, the requested amount, how funds will be used, and the program’s impact on the community. This is a fantastic opportunity to secure funding for programs or events that make a difference in local recreation. For more information or assistance, email Vivienne Kerr at [email protected]. Apply now and help create better recreational opportunities for our community!

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Addressing Deferred Maintenance to Ensure Safe and Secure Housing

High utility bills and deferred home maintenance are forcing too many homeowners and renters to live with unsafe conditions like mold, exposed wiring, and faulty plumbing. Home repairs, a small investment compared to new housing, are critical for those who can't afford the expense. This burden falls especially on seniors, new homeowners, and low-income individuals who face mounting bills and limited resources. Rising home maintenance costs are forcing difficult choices for many families, leaving them with dangerous health and safety risks. The Whole-Home Repairs Act will help low- and moderate-income homeowners make critical repairs, ensuring homes remain safe, secure, and a foundation of generational wealth.

Expanding Voter Registration Access for Subsidized Housing

The Our Homes, Our Votes Act expands voter registration access by integrating it into federally subsidized housing programs administered by HUD and PHAs. Tenants can register while signing leases or verifying income, and private landlords will act as voter registration agents. The Act ensures the timely submission of registration forms and provides language access services for tenants with Limited English Proficiency. By addressing systemic barriers like frequent moves and limited outreach, this legislation seeks to close voter participation gaps, particularly among low-income and housing-insecure individuals, fostering greater equity and accessibility in the democratic process.

Read the press release here

Equipping HBCU Students with Tools for Financial Success

Financial literacy plays a crucial role in driving economic mobility for young people, particularly students at HBCUs. I joined Olympian Chris Eubanks at FICO’s Score a Better Future program and helped the next generation of leaders gain the financial knowledge and resources needed to build a strong foundation for success.

Carter Joins the Beta Club

My Carter Cakes was accepted into the Beta Club at Dearwood Academy! This honors program celebrates students with high moral character, academic achievement, and leadership, and I couldn’t be prouder.

Bankhead Seafood is back!

Team Nikema attended the grand reopening of Bankhead Seafood. I'm Thrilled to see this Fighting Fifth staple back in business. Huge thank you to T.I. and Killer Mike for continuing the legacy of Helen Brown Harden by reviving this cherished treasure and feeding the community. I'm especially grateful that Ms. Harden was able to witness the reopening before her passing. Her contributions to Atlanta’s culture and her legacy of love and care for the community will be remembered for generations.

Helping Ms. Elisabeth get Assistance from FEMA

Ms. Elisabeth reached out to my office for help connecting with FEMA after being impacted by Hurricane Helene.

My team was able to facilitate communication, and a FEMA representative visited Ms. Elisabeth in person. She shared her gratitude, saying, “Thank you. I want to ensure your team gets the recognition it deserves for making that happen!"

Do you need assistance with a federal agency? Call my office at (404) 659-0116