CHICAGO – To combat rising energy prices, State Senator Javier Loera Cervantes encourages eligible families in the 1st District to apply for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program.
“People throughout Illinois are struggling with the rising cost of energy bills,” said Cervantes (D-Chicago). “Every Illinois resident should be able to have a suitable temperature in their house, and it’s our job to make that a reality.”
The LIHEAP program – which opened today – utilizes a priority application system to ensure that the families who are most in need can apply first. All families who meet the qualifications and provide proper documentation will receive support until the funding is exhausted. Families who earn up to double the federal poverty level are eligible to receive LIHEAP support. A chart with the eligible income thresholds can be found here.
In addition to LIHEAP, Illinois offers several other programs to support eligible low-income families with utility assistance. These programs include:
- One-Time Direct Vendor Payment: All LIHEAP recipients receive a one-time payment.
- Crisis/Reconnection Assistance: Funding is available for families in heating-related emergencies.
- Furnace Assistance: Based on funding availability, the Furnace Assistance program may be able to help homeowners who do not have an operating furnace for their residence.
- Home Weatherization Program: The Illinois Home Weatherization Assistance Program (IHWAP) helps low-income residents and households conserve fuel and reduce energy costs by making their homes and apartments more energy-efficient.
Residents can learn more about these programs and apply on the DCEO’s website.
