Hernandez Promotes Winter Heating Assistance Program

AURORA, Ill. – As colder weather approaches, state Rep. Barbara Hernandez, D-Aurora, is encouraging residents struggling to pay their utility bills to apply to the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), a financial assistance program.

“As the weather gets colder, more families may find themselves struggling to afford the high costs of their utility bills, leaving them with unsafe heating conditions at home,” said Hernandez. “LIHEAP is designed to make sure no family has to choose between putting food on their table and paying their utility bills, and I hope that those in need will seek assistance through this program.”

Hernandez is encouraging residents of her district who may be struggling to pay their gas, electric and heating bills to utilize the LIHEAP program. The LIHEAP program is a federally funded energy assistance program to help disabled residents, seniors and households with collective incomes under the national poverty level in times of need. The program can help by eliminating late payment fees and allowing more time to make certain payments. The program offers utility assistance until May 31 or until funds have been depleted, so residents are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.

Those interested in learning more about the program can visit LIHEAPIllinois.com or call the state’s toll-free LIHEAP hotline at 877-411-WARM for eligibility requirements and other frequently asked questions.

“Frigid temperatures can be extremely dangerous, so it’s important to make sure local residents can afford to heat their homes,” said Hernandez. “I strongly encourage those in need to apply for this program before the extreme cold weather comes.”

For more information, please contact Hernandez’s constituent services office at 630-270-1848 or email RepBarbaraHernandez@gmail.com.