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Heating assistance program available for Palatine Township residents

Palatine Township residents can take advantage of assistance programs to help with home energy costs, including the Low Income Heating and Energy Assistance Program, the Residential Special Hardship Program and the CEDA Furnace Program.

Low Income Heating and Energy Assistance Program

This annual program provides financial assistance for costs associated with gas and electric bills during the winter months for income qualified individuals and families. The benefit awarded is based on income, household size and the type of heating used by the resident, and is paid directly to the utility company to cover the cost of the recipients' energy bills. Applications for this program are completed by appointment only, and it is available until May 31, 2018, or when funds are exhausted. Contact the Palatine Township General Assistance Department at (847) 358-6110 to determine eligibility, including income guidelines, and other documentation required to apply for this program.

Residential Special Hardship Program

ComEd customers who receive assistance through Low Income Heating and Energy Assistance Program also may apply for the Residential Special Hardship Residential Special Hardship Program, which provides a maximum $500 grant for residents who are unable to afford their electric bills. The amount of the benefit is based on the past due balance, and can be awarded once every two years. Those who qualify can be senior citizens on a fixed income, as well as individuals experiencing a hardship such as a disability, military deployment, illness or job loss, and proof of the hardship must be provided. For information, visit comed.com/MyAccount/CustomerSupport/Pages/ResidentialHardship.aspx. ComEd issues the final approval to applicants for this program.

CEDA Furnace Program

In order for individuals to apply for the CEDA Furnace Program, they must qualify for Low Income Heating and Energy Assistance Program, and be homeowners. The program provides assistance for home heating systems that are either inoperable or 'red tagged' by utility companies. This program runs until March 31, or until funds are exhausted, and individuals can apply once per year. After an application, state of Illinois workers will visit the home and inspect the furnace; individuals must provide proof of property ownership to qualify.

"People are so appreciative of these programs that are helping to make a big difference in their lives," said General Assistance Coordinator Samantha Shapiro. "We have people reach out for assistance during challenging times in their lives, that circle back later and thank us for helping them get through those times."

Individuals must provide documentation including social security card, utility bills and proof of income for those 18 years of age and older living in the home. The approval process can take up to three billing cycles.

For information, contact Palatine Township at (847) 358-6700.

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