CANONSBURG — For many, the COVID-19 pandemic has led to financial hardships, and Columbia Gas reminds its eligible customers that the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) is now accepting applications. The LIHEAP provides one-time grants to income-eligible households to assist with winter heating bills.

“With some customers struggling to pay their utility bills during this pandemic, LIHEAP is an important resource to keep them safe and warm this winter,” said Deb Davis, Columbia Gas of Pennsylvania manager, Universal Services. “Customers are not automatically enrolled in the program, and many who qualify for assistance don’t even know it’s available to them, so it is important that every customer take the time to apply to see what they may qualify for.”

LIHEAP is a federally funded program administered by the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services. It provides cash grants ranging from $200 to $1,000 to assist in paying winter heating bills. Also available are crisis grants, ranging from $25 to $800, to assist households without heat or in danger of being without heat.

The income eligibility limit for the 2020-2021 program is 150 percent of the federal poverty income guidelines. This means that an individual with an annual income of up to $19,140 is eligible to apply. A family of four can earn an annual income of up to $39,300. Households can apply for grants until April 9, 2021. Last season, more than 20,000 Columbia Gas customers received LIHEAP grants to help with their energy costs.

Customers are encouraged to apply online through the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania Access to Social Service website (COMPASS) at www.compass.state.pa.us.

In addition to LIHEAP, Columbia Gas offers other assistance programs that offer flexible payment options, budget plans and income-eligible support. Customers also can find out what programs they may qualify for by using our eligibility calculator or calling 1-800-272-2714 to speak with a Columbia Gas representative.