READING, Pa. – Nationwide, more than 5 million low-income households rely on a federal program called LIHEAP, the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, to help pay their heating bills during colder months.
But because of the ongoing federal shutdown, states including Pennsylvania have not yet received the funding needed to start the program on time. That means families who depend on LIHEAP may have to wait at least an extra month before receiving assistance.
“We know that LIHEAP is a vital program for many of our customers, especially those customers that are struggling to manage their energy bills each month,” said PPL spokesperson Jane George.
In response, PPL is starting its no-shutoff policy early, ensuring that qualifying low-income customers won’t lose power or heat while they wait for LIHEAP to reopen.
“So that means that customers who qualify at 250% below the federal poverty line do not risk termination of their service,” George explained.
UGI says it is also preparing for increased need, and is encouraging customers to reach out now if they are worried about falling behind.
“Our biggest message is we are urging all customers who are potentially going to get shut off or are shut off to reach out,” said John Mason, public relations manager for UGI Utilities. “We have a dedicated phone number set up with UGI — 800-UGI-WARM — to call.”
UGI offers payment plans, debt forgiveness, and one-time emergency grants for households facing sudden hardship.
“We never want anyone to be without the energy they need to warm their homes,” Mason said.
For more information on assistance programs:
• PPL customers: pplelectric.com/billhelp
• UGI customers: UGI.com/assistance or call 1-800-UGI-WARM