The Sangamon County Department of Community Resources is notifying the community of significant changes to the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) for the 2023-2024 program year, reflecting reductions in federal funding.
LIHEAP aims to provide assistance to low-income individuals and families with a one-time payment per program year, directly paid to their utility or energy vendors. Additional support is available for disconnect notices, propane costs (for tanks at or below 25% capacity), and non-working furnaces for homeowners or prospective buyers.
Due to funding availability, LIHEAP's summer assistance program has been discontinued. The program will now commence on October 2, 2023, with applications in October limited to priority groups. These groups include seniors aged 60 and above, disabled individuals receiving disability benefits, and families with children under the age of six.
Starting November 1, 2023, disconnected households and those facing imminent disconnection will also be able to apply for benefits. The program will continue until August 15, 2024, or until the funds are exhausted.
Paul Truax, a member of the Sangamon County Board, encouraged residents to familiarize themselves with the changes, stating, "It is important for individuals to familiarize themselves with the new requirements. Many who qualified under the temporary COVID guidelines may not meet the updated criteria."
To apply for LIHEAP, interested individuals can visit the Community Resource office located at 2833 S. Grand Ave. East Suite C100, Springfield, Illinois 62703.