Peoples Gas’ ‘Share the Warmth’ fund doubles to keep Chicagoans warm this winter
Chicago, IL –(ENEWSPF)–October 20k, 2014. Mayor Rahm Emanuel and Peoples Gas announced today a doubling of funding for Share the Warmth, a financial assistance program that helps low-income families pay their heating bills. This winter, the City and Peoples will provide $1 million in funding for the Share the Warmth program, enough to assist 5,000 families with their heating bills.
“The Share the Warmth program has provided an indispensable lifeline for families and seniors in Chicago during the winter months,” said Mayor Emanuel. Today’s funding will provide much needed relief this season for eligible Chicagoans, and I urge those in need of assistance to apply as soon as possible.”
“We want to help our customers manage their energy costs ahead of winter by offering financial assistance, bill payment options, and rebates which encourage energy efficiency,” said John Kleczynski, president, Peoples Gas. We encourage customers to prepare for winter and apply early ahead of the first cold snap.”
Share the Warmth provides heating grants to limited and fixed-income households. Eligible customers who make a payment towards their bill receive a matching grant of up to $200. Grants can be used to reconnect service, avoid disconnection and maintain a home’s natural gas service.
The City and Peoples Gas have agreed to double the size of Share the Warmth funding as compared to donations from the previous year. This year, the City will contribute $100,000 to the program while Peoples Gas, its customers and employees will donate the remaining $900,000.
Share the Warmth opens for enrollment on Wednesday, Oct. 23. Priority groups, including seniors (60+), people with disabilities and households with children under five, are also able to apply for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) at this time. General enrollment for LIHEAP begins on Nov. 1. Both programs are administered by the Community and Economic Development Association (CEDA). Illinois utility customers have access to more than $150 million in heating and home energy assistance funds this winter.
To find the location of the nearest application site, Peoples Gas customers can call CEDA’s hotline at: 1-800-571-CEDA (2332) or visit Share the Warmth for a list of application sites and guidelines.
Customers should bring the following documents with them when applying for a grant:
• Proof of gross income from all household members for the last 30 days.
• Copy of most recent utility bill.
• Proof of Social Security Numbers for all household members.
• A Medical Eligibility Card for any household member receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF.)
For more information about other financial assistance programs, free energy savings products, rebates and energy-saving tips to help manage heating costs, visit www.peoplesgasdelivery.com.
Peoples Gas reminds customers that federal law requires regular inspection of natural gas meters and service pipes located inside homes. To avoid any disruption to your natural gas service or financial assistance, please ensure you allow Peoples Gas to inspect your meter when necessary.
Source: cityofchicago.org
