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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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State
Rep. Bill Kortz |
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LIHEAP program grants increased, enrollment extended
HARRISBURG, Feb. 2 – State Rep. Bill Kortz, D-Allegheny, announced that Pennsylvania's Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program will increase cash grant amounts by $100 and extend the program through April 2.
The program helps income-eligible households pay for heat during the winter months and is administered by the state Department of Public Welfare. A family of four with an annual income of up to $33,075 can qualify for this assistance.
"With this year's unexpected chilly temperatures – as well as the economic climate – more Pennsylvania families may find themselves in need of help this year," Kortz said. "I'm grateful that LIHEAP has been extended to help give peace of mind to more families this winter."
Kortz said with the program's extension to April 2, an additional 80,000 households could receive help paying their heating bills. Cash grants for this winter are expected to average $326.
Residents can obtain information about LIHEAP and applications by calling Kortz's constituent service office at (412) 466-1940, visiting his Web site, www.pahouse.com/Kortz and clicking on the "COMPASS" link, or by calling the Allegheny County Assistance Office at (412) 562-0330.