Increasing fuel costs have made the Utility Assistance programs one of the largest areas of basic needs assistance that Project NOW offers. Utility Assistance includes the following programs:
Low Income Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP):
LIHEAP provides utility assistance to residents living at or below
150% of the Federal Poverty Level in Rock Island, Henry and
Mercer counties. Funded by the Illinois Department of Economic
Opportunity, LIHEAP offers the following programs:
LIHEAP Information
LiHEAP Requirements (PDF)
LIHEAP Community Schedule of Satellite Sites 2012
(PDF)
One-Time Benefit Payments
One-Time Benefit Payments are provided to income eligible households based on:
- Income
- Household Size
- Fuel Type
Clients are served on a first-come, first-served basis with seniors and the disabled receiving first priority.
Reconnection Assistance
Reconnection Assistance may be available to clients who are income eligible and can demonstrate:
- Having Made Payments in an Effort to Stay Connected
or - Ability to Contribute to Portion Owed for Reconnection
Emergency Furnace Assistance
Emergency Furnace Assistance funds may be available to clients who own their own homes and are LIHEAP eligible. Furnaces will be repaired or replaced if:
- The Heating System is Non-Operational
or - Red-Tagged By the Utility Company
Cooling Funds
Cooling Funds may be available during an intense long lasting heat wave. LIHEAP will make electricity bill payments on behalf of seniors, the disabled, families with very young children, and people with medical conditions that would be aggravated by extreme heat.
I-CARE:
I-Care is a privately funded program financed through consumer donations and Mid-American Energy. Funds may be used for:
- Heat-Related Bills
- Water Heater Repairs
- Furnance Repairs
- Window and Door Repairs
