With the rising summer temperatures come rising energy bills. Don’t let the summer heat get you beat Mississippi; get the help you need with LIHEAP.
The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) provides financial assistance to eligible households for managing costs associated with:
· Home energy bills
· Energy crisis
· Purchase, repair, or replacement of air conditioners and heaters
To be eligible for LIHEAP, an applicant's household income must be at or below 60% of the state median income (approximately $27,906) to qualify for these programs.
“Rising temperatures and fuel costs are having an impact on Mississippians,” said Robert G. (Bob) Anderson, Executive Director of the Mississippi Department of Human Services. “For many, LIHEAP and the Power to Care programs serve as a lifeline. Connecting these important resources to our neighbors is critical to our mission of offering Mississippians young and old tangible help today to create a lasting hope for tomorrow.”
For residents who do not meet the eligibility criteria for LIHEAP, The Mississippi Department of Human Services works with utilities to provide energy assistance to low-income households across the state.
Entergy Mississippi’s The Power to Care Program, administered by the Salvation Army, provides bill payment assistance to low-income elderly and disabled customers. Employees and customers contribute to this fund. Their donations are matched dollar-for-dollar by Entergy shareholders up to $500k.
"By giving to The Power to Care, donors are providing relief for people in our communities who need it most," said Valarie Mabry, Entergy Mississippi public affairs representative. "Helping build stronger, healthier, and more resilient communities is an important part of Entergy's mission and our goal to become the premier utility."
Entergy also offers level billing for customers of any income level. Level billing gives the option to spread out the annual cost of a utility bill over 12 months so that no one will be surprised with higher bills in the summer due to the heat. This service is excellent for budgeting.
Energy-efficiency tips are also offered to Entergy customers. These tips will help customers manage their energy use, and most tips are low to no cost. Examples of these tips range from letting customers know the ideal temperature to set their a/c on to save money and be comfortable.
MDHS is working with Entergy and other energy providers to ensure that the people of Mississippi have access to affordable utilities and assistance with budgeting.
For more information or to register for utility assistance through MDHS, please visit https://www.mdhs.ms.gov/energy-assistance-programs-benefit-mississippi-families/ or call 601-359-4500.
