With home heating costs expected to be at their highest levels in a decade, families struggling to keep their houses warm this winter are encouraged to see if they qualify for assistance from Energy Outreach Colorado (EOC) or the Low-income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP).
EOC, which is funded through grants and donations, uses the same income guidelines as the federally-funded LEAP program. LEAP helps qualifying residents pay a portion of their home heating costs from their primary heat source (Atmos, White River Electric Assocation or White River Energy). EOC offers help with any past due utility bill (not just primary heat) and can even help with wood pellets, etc.
EOC wants to keep people from having utilities disconnected if they are at risk or cannot pay their bill. They can provide assistance once in a 12-month period on a past-due bill. Visit energyoutreach.org/programs-for-individuals/ for more information on EOC programs.
LEAP applications opened Nov. 1 and are accepted through May 1. To apply, visit cdhs.colorado.gov/leap, call 1-866-432-8435 to request a mailed or emailed application, visit the Department of Human Services office at 200 Main St. White River Electric Association at Sixth and Market, where staff are available to help residents complete a paper application.
“This winter, heating bills are expected to be at a 10-year high impacting thousands of low-income Coloradans,” says Theresa Kullen, LEAP manager. “Data from the U.S. Energy Information Administration shows consumers will pay up to 28 percent more for natural gas to heat their homes. This increase may force many Coloradans to choose between food, rent, medicine, and a warm home. We encourage anyone who thinks they may be eligible to apply and take advantage of LEAP’s many benefits.”
Assistance is based on federal income guidelines (see chart) for eligibility.
Use the table below to determine your monthly gross income according to your household size. Household refers to all people living with you and for whom you are financially responsible. The table displays updated income guidelines for the 2023-2024 season that begins November 1, 2023 and ends April 30, 2024.
