PCACS Energy Assistance Program Extended

pcacsPorter County Aging and Community Services has received additional funds for the Energy Assistance Program in order to help more clients than last winter season.

PCACS Executive Director Bruce Lindner said the allocated money will allow the agency to assist 2,452 clients or families, which is up from the 2,066 assisted last year. The program will now run until that number has been reached.

Energy Assistance is an income-eligible program designed to help families pay their energy bills. When participants qualify for a determined amount, the payment is electronically paid to the appropriate energy company.

In order to apply for assistance, individuals will need a recent energy bill that is in the applicants’ name, but it does not have to be a disconnect notice. They will also need social security cards for everyone in the household and proof of income from all sources for household members over 18. If applicants are renting, they need to have a Landlord Affidavit completed. This form is available at the trustee offices in Portage, Chesterton and Hebron and at PCACS on its Web page, www.portercountyacs.org. Additional documents may be needed for some circumstances and the staff can identify these before the appointment.

“We are still requesting that those needing assistance call to clarify which documents they will need before attending their appointments,” Lindner said.

Families or individuals can only receive assistance once during the 2011-12 winter season.

For more information or to schedule an appointment, call PCACS at 464-9736.

PCACS’ mission is to extend a helping hand to seniors, those with disabilities and low-income residents by providing services to improve their quality of life, including transportation, nutrition programs, energy assistance and activity centers.