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For Immediate Release More Pennsylvania Families Eligible for Heating AssistanceHARRISBURG – An additional $280 million will be available this winter to families that are facing a heating crisis or struggling to meet rising fuel costs, according to Senator Mike Brubaker (R-36). "The additional funding for LIHEAP will give more families relief from the rising cost of home heating fuel this winter," Brubaker said. "District residents can contact their local county assistance office or my Lititz office to learn more about the benefits offered through LIHEAP." LIHEAP provides crisis grants for families that experience heating emergencies, such as a broken furnace, fuel shortage or utility termination. The program also provides grants to help low-income families pay heating bills. The additional funding will extend eligibility to families making up to 210 percent of federal poverty level, or about $44,443 for a family of four. The changes will make an additional 80,000 Pennsylvanians eligible for cash grants and 30,000 eligible for crisis grants, Brubaker said. The minimum cash grant will increase from $100 to $300 and the maximum crisis grant will increase from $300 to $800. The amount of each grant depends on income, household size, type of heating fuel and region of the state, Brubaker said. To apply for LIHEAP, individuals should call one of the following county assistance offices: (717)299-7543 (for cash grants) or (717)299-7301 (for crisis grants) in Lancaster County, or (610)466-1042 in Chester County. Individuals with Internet access may also apply electronically via the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Access to Social Services (COMPASS) Web site at www.compass.state.pa.us. LIHEAP applicants will be required to submit the following information:
Brubaker said that many utilities offer assistance plans in addition to LIHEAP, and that consumers should check with their heating fuel and electricity supplier for details. | ||
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