CREST HILL – State Senator Meg Loughran Cappel is encouraging all eligible people to apply to this year’s Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program to help with utility costs. Applications will be accepted starting Oct. 2 through Aug. 15, 2024.

“As energy costs continue to rise, I encourage residents to apply for assistance,” said Loughran Cappel (D-Shorewood). “We are committed to helping working families and this is a great resource to take advantage of that can cut utility costs down.”

Energy bill assistance offered through the Help Illinois Families Program in program year 2023 will provide $237 million to eligible families to assist with natural gas, propane and electricity bills. Last year's LIHEAP funding — which was available from September 2022 through May 2023 — provided assistance to a record number of 311,214 households.

Beginning Oct. 2, eligible families can apply to this year’s program by visiting HelpIllinoisFamilies.com or by visiting their local agency (a list of partners throughout the state can be found here). Families can also call 1-833-711-0374 for assistance in 30 languages.

“As the weather gets colder, families shouldn’t worry if they can pay the bills to turn the heat on,” said Loughran Cappel. “Qualified people should apply so they can stay safe and comfortable this winter.”

All families who meet the qualifications and provide proper documentation will receive support until funding is exhausted. Families who earn up to two times the federal poverty level are eligible to receive support through LIHEAP.