Energy Assistance for Tazewell County, Illinois
Extreme heat and cold can create an extra burden on low-income individuals and families as energy costs mount. Eligible residents of Tazewell County, Illinois, which borders Peoria in the central part of the state, have several types of assistance available.
Other People Are Reading
-
LIHEAP Program
-
The purpose of the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program is, "...to help eligible low income households pay for winter energy assistance," according to the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. Eligibility for the state program is based on income and family size: in 2010, for example, a family of four can have a maximum annual income of $33,075. Also, if you rent and your electric or heating costs are part of your monthly rent, the rent must exceed 30 percent of your income.
Cooling Assistance
-
Many residents of Tazewell County also are eligible for help with costs associated with keeping cool during the summer. The Summer Cooling Assistance program is aimed at vulnerable populations, such as disabled individuals, senior citizens, families who have a child under 36 months, as well as, "...those with medical conditions that would be aggravated by extreme heat," according to the state Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity. For 2010, the benefit is a one-time, $150 credit towards the household electric bill.
-
Charity Assistance
-
Charities are other possible sources of energy assistance in Tazewell County. For example, organizations such as United Way and The Salvation Army often have utility-assistance programs available.
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit mother with son . winter image by Pavel Losevsky from Fotolia.com
