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Heating assistance available to help with utility bills in Marion, Hendricks counties

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Posted at 12:54 PM, Oct 10, 2017
and last updated 2017-10-10 12:54:20-04

INDIANAPOLIS -- Applications are now being accepted for people in Marion and Hendricks counties who need help paying utility bills this winter. 

The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program or LIHEAP provides assistance to people who are at or below 150 percent of the federal poverty level. For example, a four-person household making less than $36,900 or an individual with an income less than $18,096 would meet the income criteria.

Benefit amounts are based on household size and income, type of dwelling, housing status, at-risk factors and the fuel source. Applicants must provide household, income, housing and utility verification. It is a one-time benefit and is paid directly to the utility provider.

People who meet the qualifications to seek assistance with home energy bills this wintercan click here to download the application and submit by mail.

In-person appointments can be made by calling 2-1-1 beginning Oct. 23. Residents can also request a mail-in application packet by calling 2-1-1 after October 23.

“Oftentimes, our neighbors who are struggling to be financially stable are forced to make critical decisions of whether to pay for food, transportation or a warm house during the freezing winter months. In those situations, the necessity of food and gas for cars often wins,” said Mary Jones, Director of Basic Needs at United Way of Central Indiana. “We urge any qualified Marion or Hendricks County resident to apply now and take advantage of this important benefit.”

If you need information about heating assistance, dial 2-1-1.

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