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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE |
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State
Rep. Mike Carroll |
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RE: Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program
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We are reaching the height of cold weather this season and many residents will struggle to pay their energy bills, especially considering the 33 percent increase in home heating fuel costs. The financial strain of heating a home is felt by everyone, but it is especially hard on lower-income residents.
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program is a state program that helps low-income Pennsylvanians pay their heating bills. Cash grants of up to $300 are available to help pay monthly heating bills and crisis grants of up to $300 can help cover the cost of heating emergencies, such as broken heating equipment, unexpected fuel shortages or termination of utility service.
The governor recently increased the crisis grant amount to $500, so eligible homeowners who previously received a $300 crisis grant through the program, may now apply for an additional $200 to respond to another home-heating crisis.
The funding does not need to be repaid, and you don’t need to be on welfare to receive this help. County assistance offices will take LIHEAP applications from now until March 21, or when funds are depleted, whichever comes first, so you need to apply as soon as possible.
Eligibility is determined by your household income and the number of people in your home. One person with an income of $15,315 or below is eligible. For each additional person in your home, add $5,220.
Applicants must be able to provide names, birthdates and Social Security numbers for everyone living in the household. They must also have proof of household income and a recent heating bill.
Those who qualify for LIHEAP may also be eligible for free weatherization of their homes through the state Department of Community and Economic Development. The program conducts assessments of homes to determine energy loss and provides insulation, sealant and other items to help keep your home warm.
If you think you are eligible for either program, please contact my Gilbert office at 610-681-2940 for an application so you and your family can be safe and warm this winter.
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