Applications Open for Low-Income Energy Assistance Program

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. – Entergy Arkansas customers who need help paying their winter utility bills can apply now for up to $475 in assistance through the federal Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP). The program's regular assistance application period is currently open through the end of March, officials said, or until funds are expended while crisis assistance applications will be accepted through April 30.LIHEAP is a program that targets and serves the most vulnerable households, including older Americans, individuals with disabilities, and families with young children. Many rely on fixed monthly incomes, meaning that their pay does not increase when the cost of heating and cooling their homes increases. LIHEAP recipients make heartbreaking choices every day between food, medicine, or utilities.LIHEAP is designed to lower the energy burden by paying benefits for home energy bills for low-income households, who pay a higher proportion of their income for home energy costs. The program is available during summer and winter, as heating and air units work harder and use more energy during extreme temperatures. An online application is available for most Entergy Arkansas customers at www.getliheap.com, but applications can also be made in person at local community-based organizations."Customers can quickly and easily complete the LIHEAP application and upload the required documents from a computer, tablet or smart phone," said Brandi Hinkle with Entergy Arkansas Corporate Social Responsibility. "We encourage family and friends to help those who might not be as tech-savvy to help expedite their applications when possible." The Arkansas Department of Energy & Environment manages the LIHEAP program for electricity, natural gas and water, but applications for assistance must be made through a communitybased organization. Customers can find their local community action agency online at www.adeq.state.ar.us/, along with a complete list ...