Andrade Draws Attention to Start of Winter Energy Assistance Program

CHICAGO – To help provide the community’s most vulnerable residents with utility bill assistance as the weather begins to cool down, state Rep. Jaime Andrade, D-Chicago, is drawing attention to the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

“The LIHEAP program is a vital way for vulnerable families in our community to receive assistance with their heating bills this winter,” Andrade said. “This program helps to ensure that struggling households don’t run the risk of not being able to afford utility bills during the frigid winter months.”

As of Oct. 1, seniors and persons with disabilities became eligible to apply for winter heating assistance through the Home Energy Assistance Program. Disconnected households and families with children age 5 or under can begin applying for LIHEAP assistance beginning Nov. 1. Individuals not eligible for priority enrollment can apply for energy assistance beginning Dec. 1.

“No one should be forced to choose between providing food for their family and keeping their heat on this winter,” Andrade said. “I am proud to support, and will continue to support programs like these that provide such valuable assistance to those in need.”

For a complete listing of LIHEAP’s local administering agencies and additional information about the program, go to www.liheapIllinois.com, or call the LIHEAP toll-free hotline at 877 411-WARM (9276).