The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is coordinated through the Community Action Agency's Self Help Division as part of their emergency assistance programs.  The program provides assistance to low-income individuals and families who are experiencing difficulty in paying for utilities such as electricity and gas.  This assistance is provided in the form of a credit on an existing utility bill.  The program is funded through the Florida Department of Community Affairs Division of Housing and Community Development, and provides assistance to approximately 20,000 households annually.  LIHEAP provides assistance in three categories, which include:

• Home Energy is designed to help participants keep up with the increasing cost of home energy.  The program provides a credit ranging from $100.00 - $200.00 on existing utility accounts.  Participation assistance in this category is restricted to once each year. (Participants in the program must continue to pay their utility bills)
• Crisis Energy Assistance provides assistance to eligible households in resolving a home energy emergency.  Participants must have received a final notice or disconnection of services in order to receive assistance in this category.  Participants are eligible to receive a credit of up to $400.00 on an existing utility account.
• Weather-Related Crisis  assists eligible households to resolve a home energy emergency caused by a specific weather related emergency as declared by the Governor.
  

In order to be eligible to participate in these programs, the applicants household Income must not exceed 150% of the U.S. Poverty Guidelines.  Home Energy and Crisis Assistance programs are administered throughout the year as funding becomes available.  Applications are available at various Distribution Sites throughout the county.  Participation in the programs are on a first come, first served basis while funds are available.  Applications maybe returned to the Distribution Sites along with proof of eligibility  and other documentation.

Community Action Agency partners with Florida Power & Light  as well as other community organizations to provide assistance with energy related issues.  For additional information of the LIHEAP program or any of the services provided by the Community Action Agency, contact us at 786-469-4640.