DuPage County To Provide Home Heating Assistance To Those In Need

DUPAGE COUNTY, IL — DuPage County Community Services has kicked off its annual program to help residents in need to keep their heat on throughout the colder months. The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) offers heating assistance to qualifying residents who are seniors, have disabilities, or have incomes below the federal poverty level.

At press time, the county is accepting applications from senior citizens ages 60 or older, residents with disabilities, and those with disconnected heat or children 5 years old or younger.

As of Dec. 2, other eligible households with incomes at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty level can apply for assistance. This means one-person households may qualify if they have monthly gross incomes of $1,561 or less. Households with two people may qualify if they have a monthly gross income of $2,114 or less.

Homes with families of four may qualify for the heating assistance program if their monthly gross income is $3,219 or less.

To apply, bring the following items to DuPage County Community Services, 421 County Farm Rd., Wheaton, during their regular business hours:

• Social security cards for each member of your household
• Proof of gross income for each member of your household for 30 days prior to date of application
• Lease agreement for applicants who rent their homes
• Heating and electricity bills dated within 30 days of application

The LIHEAP initiative will offer heating assistance through May 31 or "until funds have been depleted," according to the county's website.

Residents who have additional questions about the program can contact 630-407-6500 or 800-942-9412 for more information.