Springfield, IL – As summer temperatures reach the 90s, most people have been forced to turn on and turn up their air conditioning, an additional cost that poses a significant financial burden for a number of Illinois residents. State Senator Dan Rutherford (R-Pontiac) is encouraging eligible households that need assistance to apply for grants through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

Rutherford explained that LIHEAP is a state- and federally-funded energy assistance program run by the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services, which helps pay the electric bills of households with incomes of up to 150 percent of the federal poverty level.

“Energy costs always skyrocket in the summer. Unfortunately, the additional cost dramatically impacts many Illinois families,” said Rutherford. “When the temperature reaches 90 and over it because a serious situation for anyone that does not have air conditioning—particularly for elderly and disabled citizens. We need to ensure these individuals are able to pay their electric bills, keep out of the excessive heat, and avoid serious heat injury or even death.”

Program recipients receive a one-time benefit for the energy bills, which is determined by household income, size, fuel type, and geographic location. Rutherford noted that applicants do not have to receive an overdue bill or cut-off notice before applying for the program.

Interested parties are encouraged to submit an application for assistance to the local agency that serves their area. After a LIHEAP applicant submits their application, the Department of Healthcare and Family Services will consider applications on a first-come, first-serve basis beginning July 31 through August 18. Applicants will be notified within 30 days regarding the amount of assistance they are eligible to receive.

A single-person household with a monthly income of up to $1,225 can qualify for the program, and a two-person household of up to $1,650 is eligible, while a family of four can earn up to $2,500 and still qualify for LIHEAP assistance. Applications will be accepted until all funding has been allocated.

Rutherford suggested that interested residents bring the following information with them when they apply for assistance:

When you apply for assistance bring the following with you:

• Proof of gross income from all household members for the 30-day period prior to application date;
• A copy of your current heat and electric bills (if you pay for your home energy directly);
• Proof of Social Security numbers of all household members;
• If a member of your household receives Temporary Assistance to Needy Families (TANF) you must bring their "Medical Eligibility Card;" and
• If you rent, bring proof of your rental agreement which states your monthly rent amount.

Interested 53^rd District residents are encouraged to contact the representative in their county for additional details:

Woodford

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Field Shopping Center
2005 South Main Street
Morton, Illinois 61550-2915
Telephone: 309-266-9941 or 309-694-4391
Hours of Operation: 8:30 a.m. - 12 p.m.
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