After the state ended all heating assistance grants to Community Action of Minneapolis, its neighboring community action organization has now doubled its operation.

Community Action Partnership of Suburban Hennepin is now processing all energy assistance applications from Minneapolis residents.

Executive Director Scott Zemke told Minneapolis City Council members that his community action organization began accepting energy assistance applications Wednesday.

His office is working with the county and other community organization to set up at least three or four satellite offices in Minneapolis so residents do not have to travel to their St. Louis Park office.

Their hope is to open offices in north, central and south Minneapolis.

Zemke plans to hire a large number of temporary staff to help keep up with the influx of applications.

The state stopped funding Community Action of Minneapolis after a new audit showed that its leader misspent more than $800,000 in taxpayer money on travel, a celebrity cruise, alcohol and other expenses.

Hennepin's community action organization is only handling energy assistance applications. Those interested in home weatherization should contact the Sustainable Resources Center at 612-870-4255. SNAP applicants should call the Minnesota Food Helpline at 1-888-711-1151 or visit Hunger Solutions.

For those who were enrolled in or who would like more information about the Family Assets for Independence in Minnesota program, call the Community Action Program of Ramsey and Washington Counties at 651-645-6445.

Alejandra Matos • 612-673-4028