The Community Action Partnership of Central Illinois announced today that September 1, 2010 marks the beginning of the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program.  CAP administers the program that provides a one-time benefit toward utilities to eligible households in DeWitt, Logan, Mason, Menard and Piatt Counties.

To qualify for the priority period of September 1, 2010 - November 1, 2010, individuals must have incomes of no more than 150% of the federal poverty level and someone in thehome must be on disability or aged 60 or over.  Households that are disconnected from their primary or secondary energy source are also eligible to apply for reconnection assistance during the priority period.  150% of the federal poverty level is $1,354 monthly for a single-person household, $1,821 gross monthly income for a two-person household and $2,289 for a family of three.

The amount of utility payment is determined by the household income, size, fuel type, and geographic location in the state.  Source of gas does not have to be natural gas or electricity in order to receive assistance.  Payments are made directly to vendors on behalf of the households.

All other households that meet the 150% federal poverty guidelines will be eligible for the program beginning November 1, 2010 and will continue to May 31, 2011 or until all funds are depleted.

On or after September 1st, interested participants can contact their local Community Action Agency Partnership of Central Illinois office to schedule an appointment.  Logan County 217.732.2159 x 226; Menard County 217.632.3878; Mason County 309.543.2594; DeWitt County 217.935.4554; and Piatt County, 217.762.2421.

Community Action Partnership of Central Illinois Agency's, serves low income, disabled and elderly households in six central Illinois counties including Fulton, Logan, Mason, Menard, DeWitt, and Piatt Counties.  For more information visit www.capcil.org.