Heating Bill Help Available for Low-Income Households Until March 31

HARRISBURG, Pa., Feb. 24, 2012 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Pennsylvania is receiving an additional $52.3 million in federal funding for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to assist those who are struggling to pay home heating bills, Department of Public Welfare Secretary Gary D. Alexander announced today.

The federally-funded program provides cash grants to eligible low-income households to help pay for home heating fuel. It also provides crisis grants to address heating emergencies such as furnace failures or unexpected fuel shortages.

"Despite seeing a warmer-than-usual winter, many people in Pennsylvania are still seeking this critical assistance," said Alexander. "This funding allows us to keep LIHEAP open through March 31."

The additional $52.3 million brings the state's total to $209.5 million for the current LIHEAP season, which began last Nov. 1. Since then, the program has helped 269,777 households pay heating bills. More than 54,412 households have received crisis grants.

The minimum cash benefit recipients may receive is now $100, and the maximum crisis grant amount is $300. To apply, an applicant must provide proof of income, household size and a recent heating bill.

Apply for a LIHEAP grant online at www.compass.state.pa.us or apply in-person at county assistance offices.  You may also call the statewide toll-free hotline at 1-866-857-7095 with questions about the program. 

For more information about the Department of Public Welfare, visit the department's website at www.dpw.state.pa.us

Media contact: Carey Miller or Anne Bale, 717-425-7606

Editor's Note:  Household sizes and income limits for LIHEAP's 2011-12 season are listed below.

1 person -- $16,335 maximum income
2 people -- $22,065 maximum income
3 people -- $27,795 maximum income
4 people -- $33,525 maximum income
5 people -- $39,255 maximum income
6 people -- $44,985 maximum income
7 people -- $50,715 maximum income
8 people -- $56,445 maximum income
9 people -- $62,175 maximum income
10 people -- $67,905 maximum income

(For each additional person, add $5,730)

Media contact: Carey Miller or Anne Bale, 717-425-7606

SOURCE Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare