JOLIET – To combat rising energy prices, State Senator Rachel Ventura encourages eligible families in the 43rd District to apply for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program.
“As people across Illinois continue to grapple with rising costs for everyday items, keeping the lights on and the heater running is a necessity,” said Ventura (D-Joliet). “Illinois families are burdened each month with the rise in their utility costs and it is crucial that we provide assistance to the families that need it most.”
The LIHEAP program – which opens Oct. 1 – utilizes a priority application system to ensure that families most in need can apply first. All families who meet the qualifications and provide proper documentation will receive support until funding is exhausted. Families who earn up to two times the federal poverty level are eligible to receive support through LIHEAP. A chart with the eligible income thresholds can be found here.
In addition to LIHEAP, Illinois offers a number of 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 emergency situations.
- Furnace Assistance: Based on funding availability, Furnace Assistance may be provided to 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.
You can learn more and apply for these programs on the DCEO Website. You may also apply in person at the Will County Center for Community Concerns (2455 Glenwood Ave., Joliet).
