SPRINGFIELD, Ill. (WBBM NEWSRADIO) -- Governor JB Pritzker announced Monday more than $300 million dollars in new funding to assist struggling residents with rent, utilities, food and other household expenses regardless of immigration status.
With support from the American Rescue Plan Act and increased eligibility provisions by the State of Illinois, residents will have access to more utility assistance than ever before, as well as increased availability of funds per household. The State is leveraging $209 million from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) to expand relief for Illinois families struggling to pay their bills as a result of the COVID-19 crisis.
“This year, the State of Illinois is offering $327 million in community assistance programs for low-income families. That includes the latest round of our Low-Income Household Energy Assistance Program and the Community Services Block Grant Program,” said Governor JB Pritzker, in a statement. “We are offering residents in need more access than ever before to vital safety net programs that can prevent them from falling behind on payments, falling into debt, or risking their ability to get back to work. Overall, this $327 million investment represents a $52 million increase over last year’s programs. It’s a historic investment to meet a historic moment.”
With more funds available, this year’s Low-Income Household Energy Assistance Program will increase payments per household – with an anticipated average payment of $1,000 in the program year 2022, up from the average of $750 last year.
“For families struggling to make ends meet, the State of Illinois is offering assistance with paying utility bills and other safety net services to help more residents get back on their feet,” said Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO) Acting Director Sylvia Garcia, in a statement. “Thanks to action taken by Governor Pritzker, the Illinois General Assembly, and with the committed service of 37 statewide Community Action Agencies – we have increased access to programs that can offset the cost of monthly bills. We are encouraging residents to get in touch with DCEO and our partners today and to apply for assistance while funds remain.”
To qualify for LIHEAP, households must demonstrate if they meet the expanded income requirements of 200 percent of the poverty level, regardless of immigration status. Recommended documents for application include Social Security Number, or I-TIN, or other identification, and proof of income. Applicants need to supply their utility bill for LIHEAP and lease for rental assistance.
The Low-Income Household Energy Assistance Program funds are available from now through May 31, 2022. To apply, please go to DCEO’s website or visit helpillinoisfamilies.com.
To help eliminate any barriers to the application process, the State also provides a hotline service with multilingual assistance in over 30 languages. Residents may visit their local CAA in-person or call the hotline at 1-833-711-0374.
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