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For Immediate Release
March 2, 2000

White: New Heating Aid Available to Families

Deadline to apply is March 31st.

Harrisburg -- Low-income families who heat their homes with oil, propane or kerosene can now apply for rebates of $250 under an emergency program developed to help offset skyrocketing fuel prices, state Sen. Mary Jo White (R-21) said today.

White said the state Department of Public Welfare is administering the one-time Fuel Price Emergency Project, using $30.6 million in federal funds.

The program, an extension of the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), runs through March 31, 2000.

"These funds can help lower-income citizens offset some of the costs associated with the recent dramatic increase in heating oil. I encourage eligible people to apply before the deadline," said White.

Eligibility is based upon income, family size and regional cost of living. To be eligible, a family’s income must be less than 150 percent of the federal poverty level, or up to $25,050 for a family of four.

Applications are available through the Butler County Assistance Office at 108 Woody Drive in Butler (724-284-8844), the Clarion County Assistance Office at RR 3 in Clarion (1-800-253-3488), the Lawrence County Assistance Office at 108 East South Street in New Castle (1-800-847-4522) and the Venango County Assistance Office at 1272 Elk Street in Franklin (1-800-522-2078).

Applicants must provide a recent bill or statement from their fuel dealership.