HARRISBURG — Department of Human Services (DHS) Acting Secretary Meg Snead joined Public Utility Commission Chair Gladys Brown Dutrieuille to announce the start of the annual Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) application process for the 2021-22 season.

LIHEAP is a federally funded program administered by DHS that provides assistance for home heating bills, so low-income Pennsylvanians can stay warm and safe during the winter months. Assistance is available for renters and homeowners.

The LIHEAP application period has been extended for this season and is open from Oct. 18 until May 6, 2022.

“Nobody should ever have to worry that their heat will be shut off during the coldest and darkest months of the year. As winter approaches and we prepare to spend even more time indoors, these bills are only going to get more expensive,” said acting secretary Snead. “LIHEAP helps some of the commonwealth’s most vulnerable citizens — children, older Pennsylvanians, people with disabilities and low-income families — make ends meet and keep their home safe through the winter. I encourage anyone who may need help, or anyone who has loved ones or neighbors who could benefit from this program, to apply for LIHEAP today.”