Utility Assistance Day In Belleville Includes Tips About Aid Programs

BELLEVILLE, NJ — Three state lawmakers from New Jersey’s 34th district recently hosted a “Utility Assistance Day” in Belleville.

Sen. Britnee Timberlake and Assembly members Carmen Morales and Michael Venezia were present at the workshop, which also included participation from NJ Shares, the New Jersey Board of Public Utilities, the state Department of Community Affairs, Verizon and PSE&G.

The lawmakers put a spotlight on two state programs that can potentially help residents with their utility bills:

• Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) – “LIHEAP assists residents with their heating and cooling bills and makes provisions for emergency heating system services and emergency fuel assistance within the Home Energy Assistance Program. The application deadline is June 30. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, and assistance is awarded on a first-come, first-served basis.”
• Universal Service Fund (USF) – “The USF offers a monthly credit on eligible customers’ natural gas and/or electric bills and shares an application with the federal LIHEAP. Applications for USF are accepted year-round.”

The legislators also used the event to spread awareness about other aid programs, such as the Weatherization Program, the Lead Remediation and Abatement Program, and the Winter Termination Program.

Morales said that rising utility costs are creating serious stress for families and seniors.

“With electric, water, and gas costs continuing to climb, it’s our responsibility to step up and help families navigate these challenges,” Venezia agreed.

“We’re especially thankful for organizations like NJ Shares that go above and beyond in providing a crucial safety net for families facing temporary financial hardships,” he added.

The 34th District includes the municipalities of Belleville, Bloomfield, East Orange, Glen Ridge, Nutley and Orange.

• See Related: NJ Senator Fights ‘Exploitative’ Electricity Hikes With New Proposed Laws
• See Related: Electric Bills Being Driven Up By AI Data Centers In NJ, New Report Says

Send local news tips and correction requests to eric.kiefer@patch.com. Learn more about advertising on Patch here. Find out how to post announcements or events to your local Patch site.