(Graettinger)– The home heating season is upon us. Low income residents needing assistance in staying warm this fall and winter are being reminded of a program that can help them cover the costs. Shelly Charapata oversees the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, or LIHEAP, for Upper Des Moines Opportunity…
“This is a one time payment only and it’s not intended to pay the household’s total energy costs. The assistance is based on household income, household size, type of fuel, type of housing, and other targeting factors. When someone applies for LIHEAP and has been approved, they are automatically applying for the weatherization program for their home. Customers eligible for LIHEAP are moratorium-protected from natural gas and electric disconnection starting November 1 through April 1.”
She says there are two different sign ups for LIHEAP…
“In the month of October it is for our elderly and our disabled clients or someone in a crisis situation. Everyone else can start applying for LIHEAP assistance starting November 1 through April 30th.”
Charapata says those signing up will need to bring some documentation with them…
“So they’ll need verification of their income for all adults in the house and adults is 18 and over; verification of their heat and electric vendor; verification of social security number.”
You can find more information and sign up by contacting your local Upper Des Moines Opportunity office.
