Low-income heating assistance available in southern Illinois | News

PULASKI COUNTY, IL (KFVS)- Illinois' southern seven counties
are among the poorest in the state. There's also high unemployment.

That's why managers of a program
aimed at helping low-income folks pay their bills are perplexed that more
people aren't signing up.

The Shawnee Development Council has
approximately $2 million to distribute through the Low-Income Heating And
Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). The program helps pay power and gas bills
in the winter months.

But so far, not enough people
have signed up for the help.

"Propane's high,
electricity's high so the money's available," said Quintilla Batiste,
LIHEAP Program Manager. "We just want people to come in and apply."

It's easy to apply. All you need
is a photo ID, Social Security card, income verification and your most recent
power and gas bill.

To find out if you're eligible, contact your local Shawnee
Development Council Office.

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