Energy assistance available for low-income DuPage residents

DuPage County Community Services will accept applications for the annual Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program beginning Monday, Oct. 2, and continuing through May 31 or until funds are depleted. With cold temperatures just around the corner, eligible families are encouraged to take advantage of the program.

Beginning Oct. 2, DuPage County Community Services will accept winter heating applications, by appointment only, from seniors 60 and older or people with disabilities. Beginning Wednesday, Nov. 1, applications will be taken for seniors, people with disabilities, disconnected households and households with children 5 and younger. All other eligible households may begin applying on Friday, Dec. 1. Benefits are paid directly to the utilities on behalf of eligible households.

If your household's combined gross income for the 30 days beginning with the date of the application is at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty level, you may be eligible to receive assistance. A single-person household can qualify for the program with a monthly gross income of up to $1,508; a two-person household up to $2,030; and a family of four can earn up to $3,075.

The state of Illinois will offer the Percentage of Income Payment Plan for the current program year. The program will be offered Oct. 2 through Dec. 31, or until funds are exhausted.

Customers must bring the following required documentation when applying for assistance:

• Social Security cards for all household members;

• Proof of gross income from all household members for the 30 days prior to the date of application beginning with the date of application; and

• Current heat and electric bills issued within the last 30 days (if they pay for the energy directly).

For information, DuPage County residents may call (630) 407-6500 or (800) 942-9412 or visit dupageco.org.

For a complete listing of LIHEAP's local administering agencies and additional information about the program, visit liheapillinois.com or call (877) 411-9276.