Springfield, IL - State Senator Maggie Crotty (D-Oak Forest) would like to let her constituents know that all eligible Peoples Gas and North Shore Gas customers can now apply for Low-income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) funds for the upcoming winter season. The program provides financial assistance to help customers pay outstanding bills, reconnect service and maintain their home’s natural gas running through the winter months. "Energy costs may be slightly lower than last year, but many people are still feeling the effects of the economy and need some help during the colder months," said Senator Crotty. "LIHEAP helps low-income eligible households pay for their natural gas service so they can keep their homes heated."

To qualify for LIHEAP assistance, customers must have proof of income, a copy of their utility bill and social security numbers for everyone in the household. Any customer 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 (Community and Economic Development Association) 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.