The Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) is a federally-funded program that provides for a one-time vendor payment to help eligible households pay their heating bills. Energy Assistance is important to all that receive it, but more so if someone in your home may be at risk for a life threatening illness or death if their home is too cold in the winter. Last year, this program served 173 Polk County

households.

Application dates:

• December 2, 2013 – January 31, 2014 or until funds are exhausted — Households with individuals age 60 and above or a disabled adult receiving service through the Division of Aging and Adult Services will be eligible to apply.

• February 1, 2014 – March 31, 2014 or until funds are exhausted – All other households

A household that applies must:

• Have at least one U.S. citizen or non-citizen who meets the eligibility criteria

• Meet income eligibility (at or below 130% of the current federal poverty level)

• Have reserves at or below $2,200

• Be responsible for the heating bills (power, gas, oil, wood, etc.)

There are NO automatic approvals. If determined eligible, the payments are made directly to the service provider.

Applications will be taken Monday – Friday, 9 a.m. – 4:30 p.m. at

Polk County Department of Social Services

231 Wolverine Trail

Mill Spring, N.C. 287S6

For additional information about the low Income Energy Assistance Program, contact Polk County Department of Social Services at 828-894-2100.

-article submitted
by Lou Parton