Heating assistance is available

HARRISBURG — Financial aid is available for the new heating season. With winter fast approaching, some residents can use assistance with winter heating bills available to those who qualify through the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). LIHEAP is a federally funded program administered by the Department of Public Welfare that helps low-income households pay for home heating fuel through cash grants and emergency furnace repairs through crisis grants. For the 2007-08 season, a family of four with an annual income of up to $30,975 can qualify for LIHEAP. Applications are available at county Assistance Offices, local utility companies and community service agencies, such as Area Agencies on Aging or Community Action Agencies. Families can also apply here for LIHEAP cash grants online. The LIHEAP program is also part of the governor’s Stay Warm PA initiative. Visit www.staywarmpa.com to find out more about available assistance programs, energy conservation and home weatherization tips. For more information, call-866-857-7095, Monday through Friday, from 8:30 a.m. to 4:45 p.m.