The Social Service Agency BCMW begins taking appointments Thursday from low-income residents who need help paying their natural gas, propane, and electric bills as well as furnace assistance.
Unlike in past years, there will be no priority groups and all income-eligible households are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. Households at or below 200 percent federal poverty level are eligible. For a one-person household, the maximum income is $2,265 a month, two people $3,052, three people $3,838, and a four-person household $4,625.
The LIHEAP provides one-time benefits to income-eligible homeowners and renters to help with energy bills and for reconnection of energy services. Propane customers are encouraged to apply when the program opens in September to take greater advantage of lower propane prices before the arrival of winter.
Those who apply for the LIHEAP program can apply at the same time for a new program providing water and sewer cost assistance to low income. The program can help with past balances as well as provide a rate reduction of $100 to $400 depending on your income level.
In Marion County, call BCMW in Centralia at (618) 532-7388 to make an appointment and receive information on documents you need to provide for assistance. Applications will also be taken through the BCMW offices in Greenville, Breese, and Nashville.
