FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
November 21, 2007
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Sen. Pileggi Reminds Constituents of Heating Assistance Available for 2007-08 Winter Months

Senate Majority Leader Senator Dominic Pileggi (R-9) today reminded constituents that the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) has started accepting applications. The program will accept applications through March 21, 2008. 

"No family should go without heat during the cold winter months," Pileggi said. "Although some weather forecasters have predicted a mild winter, I encourage families who qualify to apply for assistance from LIHEAP." 

To qualify for assistance from LIHEAP, household income cannot exceed 150 percent of the federal poverty income guidelines. For a one-person household, that equals $15,315; two people, $20,535; three people, $25,755; four people, $30,975; five people, $36,195; six people, $41,415. For larger households, the guidelines increase by $5,220 for each individual person. 

LIHEAP is a federal program, administered by the state, to assist low-income individuals who cannot pay their heating bills. Those who are eligible for the program can receive assistance through a direct payment to the vendor who supplies their fuel. LIHEAP can also provide assistance during severe weather emergencies for problems such as a broken furnace, leaking pipes or the threat of utility service termination. 

To apply, Pennsylvania residents can call the LIHEAP hotline, 1-866-857-7095, or contact their local county assistance office. In Delaware County, the county assistance office can be reached at (610) 447-3099. Chester County's assistance office can be contacted at (610) 466-1042. 

Applications may also be completed online at the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Access to Social Services (COMPASS) website, www.compass.state.pa.us. 

In addition to LIHEAP, many utility companies offer their own assistance plans. Interested customers should check with their individual heating fuel and electricity suppliers for more information.

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