STAYING WARM IN MINNESOTA
By Federated Co-ops, Inc. Propane Division
In this recession, all kinds of people in all walks of life are struggling to pay their heating bills. If that describes you or one of your neighbors, help is available in the form of a program called Low Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP).
You may sign up for this program by contacting an agency in your county like the Lakes and Pines Community Action Council, Lutheran Social Services, the Arrowhead Economic Opportunity Agency, the Tri-County Action Program, and others. To see a partial list of Energy Assistance Contacts, click here.
The agency serving your county will send you an application for a grant to help pay your heating bills this winter. Fill it out and return it to the agency. LIHEAP will consider your request based on income and the number of people in your family.
If awarded, the grant money will be deposited directly to your account with Federated Co-ops, Inc.
Apply before you run out
Living in Minnesota, you know how cold it gets in the wintertime. The best way for you and your family to stay warm is to apply for an LIHEAP grant BEFORE you run out of fuel. You only need to apply once, at the beginning of the heating season, so do it now.
Then, call for a fill when your tank reaches 20%. That will give us the time we need to fill it before you run out.
Find the agency serving you
The best way to find the agency representing LIHEAP in your county is to call Minnesota’s Energy Information Center toll-free at 1-800-657-3710. You can punch in the county where you live and the center will direct you to the appropriate county agency.
You can also visit the energy Web site of the Minnesota Department of Commerce. Click on the low income assistance tab and you will be able to download an LIHEAP application. You don’t even have to call.
Or, call your local Federated propane location. The staff at all of our offices is trained to guide you to the right agency.
EDITOR’S NOTE: Other forms of assistance are available through your county social service programs, community-based organizations, non-profit agencies, or the Salvation Army. We encourage you to check with these organizations if you are doing without necessities like heat and food.
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