Residents in Arkansas who have met the eligibility criteria and successfully applied for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) can look forward to receiving their benefit payments within the next five days. The scope of LIHEAP encompasses all 75 counties in Arkansas. However, according to the Central Arkansas Development Council, payments will commence on July 10 specifically for residents residing in 19 different counties across the state.
The following counties in Arkansas—Calhoun, Clark, Columbia, Dallas, Hempstead, Hot Spring, Howard, Lafayette, Little River, Lonoke, Miller, Montgomery, Nevada, Ouachita, Pike, Pulaski, Saline, Sevier, and Union—will be covered by the LIHEAP program. This program will continue until funds are depleted, aiming to mitigate health risks and safety concerns associated with inadequate cooling methods.
Expanded LIHEAP Coverage in Arkansas to Address Health and Safety Risks
Earlier this year, the Arkansas Department of Human Services initiated the application process for low-income households seeking assistance with their summer cooling bills. Applications are processed on a first-come, first-served basis. The LIHEAP program’s webpage emphasizes the flexibility of block grant programs, allowing states, territories, and tribes to allocate funds towards addressing natural disasters and extreme weather conditions, tailored to their community’s needs.
The amount of assistance provided varies based on factors such as household size, income, and cooling bill size. Residents can receive a maximum relief payment of $475, while the minimum payment for cooling assistance is set at $48. Although LIHEAP is commonly associated with heating service support during colder months, it also extends its assistance to cover fuel expenses during the summer, providing two options for benefit payments.
Regular benefits are fixed based on household size and income, applying to energy sources like electricity, gas, propane, pellets, and wood.
Emergency Relief Available: Restore Energy Services with LIHEAP Crisis Benefit
Individuals facing financial hardships and requiring assistance to restore their energy supply or services can access the LIHEAP Crisis Benefit. Administered by the LIHEAP Clearinghouse in partnership with the Department of Health and Human Services, this program offers a maximum benefit of $2,000 for the summer period.
Those interested in seeking aid through LIHEAP still have the opportunity to apply until September 30. To apply, households need to contact the organization operating within their county, and further application details can be found on the CADC (Central Arkansas Development Council) website.