North Carolina Utilities Encourage Weatherization

Utility companies in Nebraska are encouraging customers to take simple, low cost steps to winterize their homes. If customers implement these steps properly, they will save money on their heating bills by reducing natural gas and electric usage.

Minnesota Cold Weather Rule Starts Oct 15

October 13, 2017 – The Minnesota Department of Commerce and Minnesota Public Utilities Commission issued a reminder about the state’s Cold Weather Rule and Energy Assistance Program. The Cold Weather Rule protects residential utility customers from receiving utility disconnections. The Energy Assistance Program provides financial assistance for utility bills.

The Cold Weather Rule runs from Oct. 15 through April 15. To receive the protections, customers must establish and maintain a monthly payment plan with their utility provider.

Illinois SLIHEAP up and Running Again

October 6, 2017 – The Illinois State Low Income Energy Assistance Program (SLIHEAP) is preparing to launch operations for the 2017-18 fiscal year after ceasing to operate in 2016. The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Development said the state-run program didn’t have any funding during the 2016 fiscal year. While SLIHEAP is preparing to get back up and running for the 2017-18 fiscal year, the federal program LIHEAP is available, which offers similar benefits.

New Program in TN Will Provide Weatherization

September 29, 2017 – A new program in Memphis, Tennessee will provide weatherization services to ninety families in Memphis and Shelby County. The program is a $1.5 million grant program. The city of Memphis announced the new program last week.

Tennessee’s new assistance program is a partnership with the Tennessee Housing Development Agency, The Division of Housing and Community Development, and the United States Department of Energy.

Annual 5k Race in Connecticut to Raise Money for Winter Heating Assistance

September 22, 2017 – The annual 5k Monroe County Trail Run will raise money for assisting residents with their heating bills this winter. Last year, the race raised $14,000 and all proceeds went to assisting Monroe residents through Project Warmth. Project Warmth is a local fund dedicated to helping Monroe County residents is paying winter heating bills.

LIHEAP Application Season Begins October 1

September 15, 2017 – Many states around the country are beginning to accept LIHEAP applications for the elderly and disabled starting October 1. General applications in many states are being accepted starting November 1, and in some states starting December 1. In Iowa, Iowans 60 years and older, as well as the disabled, can begin applying for the 2017-2018 Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) starting Monday, October 2. Applications for the general public will be accepted beginning November 1.

Officials in Illinois Make Changes to LIHEAP Appointments

September 8, 2017 – Changes have been made by the Sangamon County Community Resources officials in how they will be accepting calls for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP).

Officials say that starting October 2, LIHEAP appointment calls will be accepted from seniors or disabled households who are connected or disconnected. Families with children under the age of six and disconnected homes may call for LIHEAP appointments starting November 1. All other eligible households can call to make appointments December 1.

LIHEAP Enrollment Date Set in Illinois

September 1, 2017 – Illinois seniors and people with disabilities may apply for LIHEAP assistance in Illinois starting October 1.

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity announced the enrollment start date for the 2017 Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program. LIHEAP, a federally and state funded program, assists low-income households in paying their utility bills.

Ohio Summer Cooling Assistance Available

August 15, 2017 – Canton Ohio’s Neighbor to Neighbor Utility Assistance program will be accepting applications for the summer cooling season through August 31.

Kansas Offers LIEAP for Summer Utility Bills

August 18, 2017 – This summer, Kansans will have a little extra help paying their utility bills thanks to the Low Income Energy Assistance Project (LIEAP).

Phyllis Gilmore, secretary of the Kansas Department for Children and Families, said, “This extra assistance will help keep Kansans safe from dangerous heat. The hot summer months can be especially difficult for Kansans who face the dilemma of whether to turn on the air conditioner and face a high electricity bill or pay for other necessary expenses.”

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