More eligible for energy bill help

Low-income residents who face high home-heating costs can pick up applications for Pennsylvania's Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program at county assistance offices in Emporium and Coudersport.

LIHEAP, is funded by the federal government and administered by the Pa. Dept. of Public Welfare, helps lowincome households pay their heating bills and provides assistance to individuals in danger of losing heat due to emergencies.

Income eligibility for the 2007-08 LIHEAP season will remain at 150 percent of federal poverty income guidelines, which were updated earlier this year. A one-person household qualifies if his or her income is under $15,315. Other limits are: two people, $20,535; three, $25,755; four, $30,975; five, $36,195; six, $41,415; add $5,220 for each additional household member.

Grants are based on family size, income, heating-fuel type and heating region. People do not need to have unpaid bills in order to receive energy assistance. Payments will be sent directly to the utility or fuel dealer, and the payment credited to the person's bill.

Additional information is available for Cameron County at 486-3757 or 486-1206. Potter County information is available toll-free at 1-800- 446-9896.