WILKES-BARRE -- As temperatures begin to dip in the winter months, people throughout our area can, once again this year, apply for help to pay the heating bill.
The federal low-income home energy assistance program also known as LIHEAP helps cover the cost of heating homes in Pennsylvania.
UGI is one of the utility companies that helps customers save money using the program.
“It's so important that if a customer feels they are having problems we want them to call us,” said Don Brominski of UGI Business Development Director.
LIHEAP helps low-income families pay their heating bills with a cash grant that's sent directly to the utility company.
Another option would be what's called a "crisis grant" that helps homeowners in immediate danger of losing heat.
Don Brominski says people who want help should apply as soon as possible by phone or online.
“The funds are available on a first-come, first-serve basis, so the quicker you turn your application in, the better chance you are to have help this winter paying your bills,” said Brominski.
David Conahan has lived in Wilkes-Barre all his life and has always used LIHEAP.
“Every little bit helps and I am sure everybody appreciates it. Things are hard not everybody has the money or the means to pay,” said Conahan.
Without it, he says it would be hard for him to take care of his family during severe winters.
“Body heat is fine but you need heat, or you need heat for the kids otherwise the kids get sick and that costs a lot of money,” said Conahan.
