No LIHEAP Cooling Program for Summer 2011

Seniors over the age of 60, disabled individuals and households with children under 3 will have to find other assistance to help pay their electrical bills this summer. LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program) announced that for the summer of 2011 that there will not be any LIHEAP cooling programs administered unless the federal government declares a national heat emergency.

Due to federal government cuts in the United States budget, it has been decided to cut the LIHEAP cooling program for the summer season of 2011. In previous years, the summer cooling LIHEAP program had awarded households a one time payment of $150 to use towards summer electric bills to those who were seniors over 60, legally disabled or had children under the age of three living in the household. Those specific households also had to meet required income guidelines also.

Since so many individuals and families are finding themselves already out of work and having trouble keeping a steady monthly budget, this could mean even more hardship for households already living on a fixed income. Rising fuel prices and grocery costs have made it difficult for many families to get by. With current late spring temperatures already coming close to breaking past records during the last couple of weeks, some may have to find other ways to cool off this summer.

Those who are in need of assistance to help pay electric bills this summer should contact their county officials such as township supervisors or area churches. Sometimes townships or churches carry extra funding to help families in need. While smaller places of worship may not be able to pay an entire month's utility bill, sometimes they can work with a family on helping them pay a specific portion or splitting the cost.

If you have a medical condition that requires continuous electricity such as being on oxygen, most utility companies will honor a note from your physician. Your doctor can write a note to the utility company explaining that you must be on oxygen 24 hours a day (or any other amount of hours) and that it is important that your household have electricity. While this doesn't exempt you from paying your electrical bill, it can be noted on your account so that you aren't automatically turned off for non-payment. Some utility companies may require that you have a statement written from your doctor every month or may only honor a certain amount of letters each calendar year. Check with your utility company to find out what their current policy is.

During weather with extreme heat conditions, if you have neighbors who are elderly, disabled or have small children, be sure to check on them frequently. For families who are unable to afford to use their air conditioners or central air units, a warm summer can be uncomfortable for them. If you are looking for other places to stay cool this summer, visit your local library, mall, church or other family members. Other ways to stay cool during the summer include drinking water to stay hydrated, closing your shades during the day to block out sunlight and opening windows during evenings to allow cool air to enter your home.



Resources:

http://www.wandtv.com/story/14839777/liheap-wont-be-getting-help-this-summer