Harper Encourages Residents to Check Eligibility for Heating Assistance

CHICAGO – State Rep. Sonya Harper, D-Chicago, is highlighting the upcoming application period for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which helps eligible working families pay for utility services.

“Even though we’ve just entered fall, Chicagoans know that winter is always just around the corner,” Harper said. “Unfortunately, when temperatures drop suddenly, far too many families in Chicago cannot afford to adequately heat their homes.”

In Illinois, the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) assists eligible working families by helping subsidize winter heating bills. This program also helps families with crisis assistance, energy-related home repairs, summer cooling bills and weatherization. The program’s 2019-2020 application period opens on Oct. 1 and continues until May 31, 2020, or until funding is exhausted. Residents are encouraged to visit LIHEAPIllinois.com or to call the state’s LIHEAP toll-free hotline at 877-411-WARM (877-411-9276) for information on income eligibility and how to apply for assistance.

“LIHEAP is a lifeline for thousands of people in Illinois, helping them stay warm through the cold months,” Harper said. “Families shouldn’t be forced to choose between putting food on their tables and staying warm in their homes. Thankfully, LIHEAP is a great resource available to local families and seniors.”

Harper represents the 6th District, which includes all or portions of Armour Square, Bridgeport, Chicago Lawn, Englewood, Gage Park, Back of the Yards, Canaryville, New City, West Englewood, Marquette Park, South Loop and River North.