Winter heating grants available to low-income households

As winter temperatures sweep the region, homeowners are reminded that crisis grants are available to income eligible households without heat or in danger of being without heat.

Through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), those who qualify can receive cash grants ranging from $200 to $1,000 to assist in paying heating bills.

Crisis grants, ranging from $25 to $600, can help with broken heating equipment or leaking lines, a lack of fuel or the possibility of being without a fuel supply or in the event that a utility service is shut off or the main or secondary source of heat is turned off.

“LIHEAP is an important resource to keep our at-risk customers safe and warm during cold weather, and crisis grants can provide extra help when an emergency comes up,” Deb Davis, Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania manager, said in a news release. “Anyone who needs assistance with a heating bill and meets the income guidelines should apply. It’s a one-time grant, so you don’t have to repay it.”

To qualify for the grants, individuals can have an annual income up to $18,735, while a family of four can earn an annual income up to $38,625. Qualifications are based on federal poverty income guidelines.

Households have until April 10 to apply on the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services website, dhs.pa.gov, or by calling 800-272-2714.