Springfield, IL - State Senator Maggie Crotty ( D-Oak Forest) would like to let her constituents know that LIHEAP (Low-income Home Energy Assistance Program) will begin accepting applications on Tuesday, September 1, 2009.  LIHEAP offers grants to help customers pay outstanding bills, reconnect service, and keep their home’s energy on. “During the winter month’s energy costs can skyrocket and many people, especially if they are on a fixed income cannot afford to heat their homes,” said Senator Crotty.  “The LIHEAP program is designed to help eligible low-income households pay for energy services.”

To sign up for the program customers must have proof of income, a copy of their utility bill and social security numbers for everyone in the household.  Anyone may be eligible for a grant if their income is 150% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.

To apply and find the location of the closest LIHEAP application site, Peoples Gas customers can call CEDA’s hotline at: 1-800-571-CEDA (2332) or visit http://www.cedaorg.net/www2/EnergyConservation.html.

Customers can also visit www.peoplesgasdelivery.com for a list of application sites and guidelines.