The City of chicago Urges Residents to Apply for Low Income Home Energy Assistance #p2 #tcot

from http://www.cityofchicago.org/city/en/depts/oem/provdrs/edu/news/2010/dec/the_city_urges_residentstoapplyforlowincomehomeenergyassistance.html

U.S. Department of Health & Human Services Makes $34 Million Available for
Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) in Illinois

Media Affairs
OEMC    
312/746-9454
www.alertchicago.org

The U.S. Department of Health & Human Services (HHS) has made $34 million in funding available across the state for those seeking assistance with the cost of heating their homes through the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). CEDA of Cook County, Inc., the Local Administering Agency for LIHEAP assistance in Cook County, now has approximately $45 million in Direct Client Assistance remaining for those in need of help.

The City of Chicago, Office of Emergency Management and Communication (OEMC) informed residents to take advantage of this important program at a much needed time. "With Chicago and the Midwest currently experiencing extreme cold temperatures, we want to remind residents, especially in these tough economic times, that help is available for low income families with their heating bills this winter," said OEMC Executive Director, José A. Santiago.

These funds are additional grants provided to states and local municipalities LIHEAP.  Those qualifying for assistance can receive a one-time payment to their utility companies that is applied directly to the household's energy bills. The amount of the payment is determined by income, household size and fuel type.

"What we're witnessing with CEDA LIHEAP is the result of varying economic factors that impact the lives of everyday Americans, such as job loss and the burdens of managing basic cost-of-living expenses.  We're glad the Administration has acted responsibly by providing the states with additional funding, which will enable us to assist additional families during this bitter cold spell," said CEDA President and CEO Robert L. Wharton.

For more information about LIHEAP, including where to apply for assistance, eligibility requirements and documents needed, residents should contact CEDA  at 800-571-CEDA (2332) or visit http://www.cedaorg.net/www2/EnergyAssistance.html.

For cold weather tips, visit the Alert Chicago website at www.alertchicago.org.