WASHINGTON ANNOUNCES DEADLINE EXTENSION FOR HOME HEATING AID

          HARRISBURG, March 12– State Sen. LeAnna Washington (D-Phila./Montgomery) announced today that larger crisis grants and an extended application deadline for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)will assist more low-income families in need of home heating assistance.

          “I am pleased to announce this increase and deadline extension for LIHEAP,” Washington said.  “This program – critical to so many low-income Pennsylvania families -- will help these individuals cope with the financial burden of rising home heating costs.”

          Washington said that crisis grants will be increased to $400 and the program extended to March 30, 2007.  LIHEAP recipients who have already received $300 in crisis benefits can now apply for an additional $100 if they experience another home heating emergency.

          LIHEAP helps low-income households pay for a variety of home heating fuel services and furnace repairs during the winter months.

          Cash grants are designed to help families pay their home heating bills and are based on household income, family size, fuel type and heating region.

          Crisis grants are approved for families with heating emergencies, such as mechanical breakdowns or unexpected fuel shortages.  Philadelphia residents should contact the Department of Licenses and Inspections at (215) 686-2590 to apply for crisis grants.