People struggling to heat their homes this winter will get a helping hand, starting January 2nd.
Pennsylvania will start offering crisis grants under the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program, known as LIHEAP. The program supplies money for heating emergencies, such as broken heating equipment or a lack of fuel.
This is actually the second phase of the LIHEAP program, which goes into effect as the temperatures become colder during the winter season. It's designed to assist people when "heating one's home becomes a lifesaving measure," according to Gary Alexander, secretary of the Pennsylvania Department of Public Welfare.
Applicants must meet eligibility guidelines based on your household size and income. The maximum income limit for a household of one person is $16,755. The limit increases by $5,940 for each additional person in the household.
People who qualify can apply online at www.compass.state.pa.us or in person through local county assistance offices.