Heating aid sign-ups set

Families of four earning less than $26,123 are eligible for financial aid.
HARRISBURG -- The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program will begin accepting applications November 7.
"Heating costs are expected to be very high this year, but you can only set a thermostat so low when you have older family members or young children in the house," said Pa. state Senator Bob Robbins of Greenville, R-5th. "Families with eligible incomes should apply to LIHEAP and look into other assistance programs offered by their utility company.
LIHEAP provides the following types of assistance: cash grants, crisis grants for families dealing with broken heating equipment, leaking lines, a fuel shortage, or the threat of utility service termination and weatherization help.
Homeowners and renters are eligible for help through LIHEAP. Households with an income that is less than 135 percent of the federal poverty income guidelines can receive cash and/or crisis grants. For a family of four, the household income cutoff is $26,123.
To apply, call one of these county assistance offices: Crawford County (814) 333-3400, Mercer County (724) 983-5022, Lawrence County (724) 656-3021 or (724) 598-2088, or Butler County (724) 284-8855.
Those with Internet access may apply electronically via the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Access to Social Services Web site at www.compass.state.pa.us.
Applicants will be required to submit the following information: Names of people in household, social security numbers for all household members, proof of income for all household members, recent heating bill.
Robbins said that many utilities offer assistance plans in addition to LIHEAP, and that consumers should check with their heating fuel and electricity supplier for details.