Autumn’s chill air means that winter is quickly approaching, and with it, colder temperatures increase our reliance on natural gas to stay safe and warm in our homes.

Each year though, many Pennsylvanians struggle financially with heating bills during the winter months, and utility providers like Columbia Gas work to connect individuals with federal, state, or local income-eligible payment assistance programs to help them pay their bills and maintain their utility services.

One such program is the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, or LIHEAP, a federally funded program administered through the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services. It has been a great success story. Millions of low-income households have benefited from LIHEAP over the years, which was established by the U.S. Congress 40 years ago.

This season, Pennsylvania’s LIHEAP funding has increased more than 100 percent over last season. That means that $328.5 million is available to help more than 328,000 income-eligible households across Pennsylvania struggling with winter heating bills this season.

Unfortunately, for one reason or another, many people who qualify for LIHEAP fail to apply for the benefits and miss out on valuable assistance. With more money available this season, everyone who is eligible should apply so that no money is left unclaimed.

For families with hardships, there has never been a better time to check their eligibility for assistance. Many households may qualify and not even realize it, so it’s important that they take the time to understand the program’s benefits and to apply for assistance.

People can apply online at www.compass.state.pa.us or request an application by calling the statewide LIHEAP hotline at 1-866-857-7095. LIHEAP runs through May 6, 2022, or until funding is exhausted.

What does LIHEAP offer?

LIHEAP offers both cash and crisis grants for income-eligible households. Cash grants range from $500 to $1,500, an increase of $300 and $500 respectively over last season’s minimum and maximum grant amounts, and are based on household size, income, and fuel type.

Crisis grants may be available if someone has an emergency situation and is in jeopardy of losing heat. A household can receive more than one crisis grant, as necessary, during the season until the maximum benefit of $1,200 (a $400 increase over last season’s maximum amount) is reached.

In addition to LIHEAP, many utility companies offer flexible payment options, budget plans and income-eligible financial support as additional safety nets during difficult times.

Consumers should contact their utility providers to see what programs they may qualify for, or they can visit company websites to research options.

For some programs, income may not be the only requirement to receive funds. Many companies’ websites offer online tools, like eligibility calculators, to help customers determine the best programs to meet their specific needs.

Everyone knows someone who may need help with their utility bills, whether it’s an elderly neighbor, a friend, or family member. No one should have to worry about staying safe and warm during the winter months, and utility providers like Columbia Gas can help customers navigate through the various programs and financial aid services available to them. We’re here to help.

Mark Kempic is the president and chief operating officer of Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania and Maryland.