Community Action Partnership of Central Illinois has announced today that funds are still available for families who have not applied for Energy assistance from September 1, 2009 to present.  Eligible participants will have a payment made directly to their utility company.

To be eligible, household income must be equal or less than 150% of the poverty level.  For example, a single-family household can qualify with gross monthly income of $1,254.  A two-person household up to $1,821 and a family of three can gross up to $2,289 monthly.  An overdue bill or disconnection notice is not required.  Assistance is available for households using natural gas, electric, propane, fuel oil or wood.  Renters can also qualify for assistance.

Kimberly Lucas, LIHEAP Coordinator said "Funds are still available and we are trying to reach those families that are in need of help with the high costs of utilities.  We are especially interested in finding those families that have never needed help in the past."

The program runs until May 31, 2010, or until funds are exhausted, so interested individuals should contact Community Action immediately to make an appointment.  Interested individuals must bring the following to their appointment: social security cards for all family members, previous 30 days gross income, and the most recent gas and electric bill.  To schedule an appointment contact the local Community Action office:  Logan County 217.732.2159; DeWitt County 217.935.2455; Mason County 309.543.6988; Menard County 217.632.3137; Piatt County 217.762.2421.  Arrangements can be made for those who cannot come in for an appointment.

Community Action Partnership of Central Illinois is a not-for-profit organization that serves Logan, DeWitt, Mason, Menard, Piatt and Fulton counties.  In addition to LIHEAP, Community Action provides Homecare, Foster Grandparents, Head Start, Early Head Start, Senior Transportation and Weatherization Programs.  Visit www.capcil.org for more information.