Community Action utility assistance program begins

[September 07, 2013]  The Community Action Partnership of Central Illinois is accepting applications this month for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, known as LIHEAP. Community Action administers the assistance in DeWitt, Logan, Mason, Menard and Piatt counties. The program provides a one-time benefit toward utilities for eligible households.

To qualify for the priority period of Sept. 3-30, individuals must have incomes of no more than 150 percent of the federal poverty level. Households that have seniors or disabled residents can apply.

For October, applications accepted will be expanded to include households that have families with children under 6 and disconnected households.

All other households that meet the 150 percent federal poverty guidelines will be eligible for the program beginning Nov. 1 and continuing to May 31, 2014, or until all funds are depleted.

The amount of the utility payment is determined by the household income, size, fuel type and geographic location in the state. The energy source does not have to be natural gas or electricity in order to receive assistance. Payments are made directly to vendors on behalf of the households.

Those interested in participating can contact their local Community Action office to schedule an appointment:

• Logan County: 217-732-2159, ext. 226

• Menard County: 217-632-3878

• Mason County: 309-543-6988

• DeWitt County: 217-935-2455

• Piatt County: 217-762-2421

Community Action Partnership of Central Illinois serves low-income, disabled and elderly households in six central Illinois counties. For more information, visit www.capcil.org.