January 15, 2004 - Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) begins; Kansas Weatherization Program also available to help with energy costs

Topeka -- Applications for the Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIEAP) are being taken January 20 - March 31, 2004. Applications for the program have been mailed to persons who received energy assistance last year, along with other targeted low-income families, including those who received food assistance or cash assistance in December 2003.

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

LIEAP provides an annual benefit to help qualifying households pay for home fuel and energy purchases. In 2003, benefits were provided to 38,342 households and averaged $359.

As it has for more than 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 extremely important.

"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 with incomes within the following guidelines may 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, through the Kansas Housing Corporation.

Eligibility guidelines for the weatherization program 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 to Families (TAF) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI).

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