Home heating assistance information offered

WASHINGTON D.C. - As we enter the remaining weeks of fall, Congressman Bill Shuster has issued reminders about information needed to prepare for a projected increase in home heating oil prices.

The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance program, LIHEAP, established in 1981, is a block grant program under which the federal government gives states and other jurisdictions annual grants to operate home energy assistance programs for low-income households.

The 2007-2008 LIHEAP season for Pennsylvania opened on November 5th and will end on March 21, 2008. Constituents who meet income eligibility requirements are encouraged to apply for the program online at www.dpw.state.pa.us/ServicesPrograms/ LIHEAP or by phone by calling 1-866-857-7095. Income eligibility is based upon Federal Poverty Income Guidelines. A breakdown of the income thresholds can be viewed here.

"It is important that my constituents who rely on home heating oil get the information they need to help them through winter," Shuster said. "I encourage everyone who qualifies for the LIHEAP program to apply for assistance before winter hits."

"As always, my office stands ready to assist anyone who is having problems or has questions about the LIHEAP program. Anyone needing help can contact me toll free at 1-800- 854-3035 in my Hollidaysburg office."