Help heating your home is on the way.<\/p>\n
The Low-Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is now available to Pennsylvanians through the spring.<\/p>\n
It is a sign of the season. Applications are now open to help you stay warm as the cold weather moves in.<\/p>\n
In Pennsylvania, the Department of Human Services says it is ready to help those hurting.<\/p>\n
“We are anticipating record numbers of Pennsylvanians. We are all following the news, just like I’m sure the folks who are watching this cast are, that the cost of living really has skyrocketed,” said Hoa Pham, PA DHS Deputy Secretary for the Office of Income Maintenance.<\/p>\n
The need is real as many plan for how they will heat their homes this winter.<\/p>\n
“Especially in this upcoming \u201826-27 program year, where we know that the cost of living and particularly the cost of fuel and utilities has been increasing. We really want to urge Pennsylvanians, take advantage of this opportunity while you can,” she said.<\/p>\n
Now through April 23, Pennsylvanians can apply for a cash grant of between $200 and $1,000.<\/p>\n
Eligibility is based on the total annual income and size of household. The state’s Department of Human Services says it is preparing for more applicants.<\/p>\n
“Many of them are working full-time jobs and still just can’t bring enough resources to the table to lead the kinds of lives that they want to for themselves and for their families,” Pham said.<\/p>\n
Every year the program changes slightly, so this year is a clean slate for applicants.<\/p>\n
“This program is open on time. Folks who have been tracking year over year might have noticed that last year we weren’t able to provide as much relief as early as we wanted to because of a really unprecedented federal government shutdown. I am so happy to say that that is not the case,” Pham said.<\/p>\n
The LIHEAP Crisis Grant is another resource for those experiencing heating emergencies. You can receive more than one crisis benefit per season.<\/p>\n
LIHEAP is also available in New Jersey. The Garden State also helps with cooling, so its applications remain open through June 30.<\/p>\n