LIHEAP application period open to all households
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By DAVID CAMPHOUSE
The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) started accepting applications for assistance for all households beginning Friday, Nov. 1. The program offers financial assistance for utility bills to low-income families.
Previously, the LIHEAP application period for certain populations had opened on October 1. Those populations who were eligible to apply starting October 1, included adults age 60 and older, individuals with disabilities, families with children under age five, as well as households that are disconnected from their utilities or energy vendors, have a disconnect date within seven days or whose propane tanks are less than 25 percent full.
LIHEAP is state and federally funded and administered through the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. Locally, LIHEAP is administered by Two Rivers Regional Council of Public Officials (TRRCOPO).
The purpose of LIHEAP is to assist low-income persons by offsetting the rising cost of home energy through direct financial assistance, energy counseling, outreach and education. Help can also be provided for natural gas, propane, fuel oil, coal, and electricity bills. Eligibility for LIHEAP is based on 200 percent of poverty level.
Individuals seeking assistance or further information should call TRRCOPO at 217-224-8171 or visit https://www.trrcopo.org/contact-us/ to email the organization to begin the application process.
Individuals may also walk in to TRRCOPO’s Quincy offices at 706 Maine Street Monday through Friday from 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m.
For hours of operation or to make an appointment at TRRCOPO’s Pike County offices at 120 South Madison in Pittsfield, individuals should call 217-285-5424.
When applying, individuals should bring social security cards and 30 day gross income for all household members, as well as the most recent gas and electric bill.
Assistance is also available when the participant’s utilities are included in their rent, providing the monthly rent amount is greater than 30 percent of the 30 day gross income. Individuals whose utilities are included in their rent should bring copy of their rent receipt.
Utility reconnect assistance may be available if a household has been disconnected from an energy source or a delivered fuel supplier has refused to deliver and the tank contains 25 percent or less.
