January 7, 2002 - Low Income Energy Assistance Program to begin operating in January; Kansas Weatherization Program also available to help with energy costs

Applications for the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) will be taken January 22, 2002, through the end of March, 2002. Applications for the program will be mailed January 18 to persons who received assistance last year along with other targeted low-income families, including those receiving Food Stamps in December of this year.

Other households may request a LIEAP application from local Department of Social and Rehabilitation Services (SRS) offices and other helping agencies. Those seeking the assistance can also ask for an application by calling 1-800-432-0043.

LIEAP provides an annual benefit to help qualifying households pay for home fuel and energy purchases. In 2001, benefits were provided to 34,850 households. Benefits averaged $467. The level of benefits for 2002 will depend upon the amount of federal funding received.

As it has for the last 20 years, SRS will administer the LIEAP program. Because of employment layoffs and a struggling economy, SRS Secretary Janet Schalansky said providing help to low-income people in meeting household energy needs is especially important this year.

"LIEAP often helps elderly persons, persons with disabilities, or people out of work or in low-wage jobs make ends meet," she said. "It is a very useful program."

To qualify, applicants must be responsible for direct payment of their heating bills. Income eligibility guidelines are set at 130 percent of the federal poverty level. The level of benefit varies according to household income, number of persons living at the address, type of dwelling, type of heating fuel, and utility rates.

Persons earning incomes within the following guidelines may be eligible to receive LIEAP benefits:

In addition to LIEAP, the Kansas Weatherization Program is available to help qualified households pay for home weatherization needs. Weatherization services and materials may include a weatherization needs assessment, caulking, insulation, modifications, repairs, or replacement of heating or cooling systems. The weatherization program operates year round.

Eligibility income guidelines differ from LIEAP and are 150 percent of the federal poverty level or 60 percent of the state median income, whichever is greater. Households are automatically eligible when one person in the home is receiving Temporary Assistance for Families (TAF) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

Persons interested in the Weatherization Program may call the Housing Information Line at 1-800-752-4422 for an application or further information.