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For Immediate Release
1/27/06
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Pippy: Home Heating Assistance Available to 67,000 Additional Families

Legislature approves additional funds to loosen income requirements.  

Harrisburg -- New income guidelines will allow an additional 67,000 families to receive help paying their heating bills through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), state Sen. John Pippy (R-37) said today.  

Last fall, the General Assembly approved a first-time infusion of $19 million into the federally funded program, allowing the income threshold for LIHEAP grants to increase from 135 percent of the federal poverty level to 150 percent.  

"Before this change, only families of four making no more than $26,123 could apply for LIHEAP grants. With the new income requirement, a family of four making $29,025 can apply for the assistance," said Pippy.  

For a household of one, the income limit is $14,355. The limit is increased by $4,890 for each additional person. (The limit for a family of two is $19,245; for three it's $24,135.) 

"I urge anyone who needs help, but didn't qualify in the past, to apply again," said Pippy.  "There is plenty of winter left, and heating prices are high. If you need help paying your heating bill, or know someone who does, look into LIHEAP." 

 To apply for LIHEAP, call the Allegheny County Assistance Office at 800-851-3838 (for a Crisis Grant) or 412-562-0330 (Cash grant).  Families can also apply for LIHEAP cash grants online at www.compass.state.pa.us, or call the LIHEAP HELPLINE at 1-866-857-7095. 

CONTACT: Matt Campion (412) 571-3822