Community Action utility assistance program begins

[September 15, 2012]  The Community Action Partnership of Central Illinois announced that Tuesday was the beginning of the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, LIHEAP. Community Action administers the program, providing a one-time benefit toward utilities to eligible households in DeWitt, Logan, Mason, Menard and Piatt counties.

To qualify during the priority period of Sept. 4-28, individuals must have incomes of no more than 150 percent of the federal poverty level. Seniors or disabled residents can apply.

Beginning Oct. 1-31, accepted applications will be expanded to include households that have families with children under 5 and disconnected households.

All other households that meet the 150 percent federal poverty guidelines will be eligible for the program beginning Nov. 1 and will continue to May 31, 2013, or until all funds are depleted.

The amount of utility payment is determined by the household income, size, fuel type and geographic location in the state. Source of gas 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.

Interested participants can contact their local Community Action Agency Partnership of Central Illinois 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 Agency serves low-income, disabled and elderly households in six central Illinois counties. For more information, visit www.capcil.org.