Portland Low-Income Energy Assistance
Low-income residents or Portland, Oregon, can receive energy assistance through federal and state programs and nonprofit organizations. Programs typically require applicants to meet income limits and often offer assistance on a one-time or once-per-season basis. Types of help provided include bill payment, energy education and weatherization of homes. The majority of programs offer services through local agencies and organizations.
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LIHEAP
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The Oregon Housing and Community Services (OHCS) administers the federally funded Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) throughout Oregon. LIHEAP helps low-income residents pay their heating bills and extends eligibility to homeowners and renters. Applicants cannot have an income above 60 percent of the median income in Oregon and must have documents proving their need for energy assistance. LIHEAP services include energy education, home weatherization and utility bill payment. OHCS operates the program through senior citizen agencies, government offices and Community Action Partnership offices, which determine eligibility. The Community Services Division of the Department of County Human Services administers LIHEAP assistance in Portland.
Oregon HEAT
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Oregon HEAT, a nonprofit organization, helps low-income residents keep their utility services connected when they face financial emergencies. The organization operates on funding provided by individual donors and corporate partners, including ORRCO, Pacific Power, PGE and West Oregon Electric Cooperative. Oregon HEAT administers assistance services through dozens of social services agencies and community organizations, including the Community Energy Project, YWCA of Greater Portland and Fish Emergency Service in the Portland area.
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Oregon Energy Assistance Program
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OHCS offers the Oregon Energy Assistance Program (OEAP) to help low-income families retain their electricity service. Different from the LIEAP, the program receives funding through fees charged to electricity customers throughout the state and provides assistance to residents who have a household income no higher than 60 percent of the median income in Oregon. Applicants must provide documentation of their utility costs and renters and home owners can apply. Portland citizens can apply for help at the Community Service Division of the Department of County Human Services.
Community Energy Project
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Established in 1979, the Community Energy Project provides weatherization workshops and weatherization services for Portland residents with disabilities and senior citizens. The program receives funding from agencies and corporations such as the Portland Housing Bureau, Oregon Department of Energy, Portland General Electric and PacifiCorp. Government agencies, utility companies, foundations and corporations deliver services. Weatherization workshops include free kits for weatherizing homes and qualified residents can receive home weatherization services, such as weatherstripping installation, caulking and water heater insulation. Seniors and disabled Portland residents can contact the Community Energy Project at 503-284-6827.
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