. -- samchief sam's board ford spoke with some of the people waiting in the long lines. >> we want to get everybody in. around theed up former city services building and wrapped around the block. they all have at least one thing in common, they are in the dark. >> our electricity was shut off. >> it is time to give us some help out here. all we can do is -- >> the beginning of a new fiscal year means d.c.'s low income energy assistance program that used up its budget last year has money again to help people get their lights and gas back on. >> we have seen the bill today at $7,000. we cannot pay all of it but we will help as much as we can. pepco $786. >> i have been trying to hold on. finally they cut it off to an a half weeks ago. >> they were allowed in in groups to register and tell their stories. councilmember marion barry arrived, saying welfare benefits have contributed to this. >> poor people are getting kicked in the behind. >> he is organizing a protest tonight at union central church. >> i was a little complacent but now i need help. help,n if you qualify for it could take