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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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State
Rep. Mark A. Longietti
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Longietti: LIHEAP cash grants increased, deadline extended
HARRISBURG, Jan. 5 – State Rep. Mark Longietti announced that Pennsylvania's Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, also known as LIHEAP, will increase cash grant amounts by $100 and extend the program through April 2 because additional federal money has become available.
"This is good news in what has been a bitterly cold winter," said Longietti, D-Mercer. "I'm hopeful the changes to the program will provide help for people who need it, particularly during these difficult economic times."
Under the changes announced today, LIHEAP's closing date has been extended from March 15 to April 2. The Department of Public Welfare, which administers the program, said cash grants for this winter are expected to average $326 with the additional federal dollars.
Cash grants help families pay their regular heating bills. The grant typically is sent directly to a utility company or fuel provider, and is credited on a recipient's bill. Crisis grants help with emergency heating situations, such as a fuel shortage, utility service termination, a broken furnace or leaking lines.
Longietti said people can learn more by calling the Mercer County Assistance Office toll free at 1-800-747-8405. He also said information is available through his Web site at www.pahouse.net/Longietti.
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