Community

Low income energy assistance program for region begins Sept. 1

The Will County Center for Community Concerns (WCCCC), as administrator of the Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), is pleased to announce that funds are available to assist income-eligible households with their utility bills (gas and electric).

Tri-County Opportunities Council, as administrator of the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, is pleased to announce that funds are available to assist income-eligible households with their utility bills (gas and electric). (Shaw Media)

By Sauk Valley Media staff report

ROCK FALLS — Households that are at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level for monthly income are eligible for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program in Bureau, Carroll, Lee, Ogle and Whiteside counties.

The Tri-County Opportunities Council is the administrator for the program. it announced that funds are available for households with natural gas, propane or electric bills.

The program begins Sept. 1 and operates through May 31, 2022. Appointments, however, can be scheduled now by calling the office at 815-625-7830.

There are no priority groups for the program this year.

Qualifying monthly incomes are: $2,147 for single-person households, $2,903 for two-person households, $3,600 for three-person households and 4,417 for four-person households.

Information on income standards for larger households are available at tcochelps.org.

Beginning Sept. 1, participants can choose to make a one-time payment to a utility provider or enroll in a PIPP, which is the Percentage of Income Payment Plan. PIPP is available for customers of Ameren Illinois, Com Ed, and Nicor Gas.

Applicants must provide proof of gross income for the 30 days beginning with the date of application. They must provide proof of Social Security or Taxpayer Identification Number for all household members. A copy of the current heat and electric bill for the past 30 days is required. Renters should provide a copy of the rental agreement and contact information for the landlord.

Outreach locations are: Bureau County, 1019 N Main, Princeton, 815-879-2099; Carroll County, 1801 Chicago Ave., Savanna, 815-273-0318; Ogle County, Rock River Center, 810 S 10th St., Oregon, 815-732-2907; Whiteside County, 405 Emmons Ave., Rock Falls, 815-625-7830




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