(Philadelphia, PA – March 20, 2006) – Last week, Governor Rendell announced that the Low Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) and Crisis programs have been extended so that applications will be accepted through April 14.

Two additional program changes were announced by the Governor:

First, Crisis grants are being doubled from a maximum of $300 per eligible household to a maximum of $600. Heating customers who already have been approved for Crisis grants now may apply for additional funds. While LIHEAP grants are based on an applicant’s household income to help low-income residents with their heating bills, the Crisis program provides additional grants to help eligible households with heating emergencies or a potential service shutoff.

Second, income eligibility has been raised from 135% of the federal poverty standard (approximately $27,000 per year for a family of four) to 150% of that standard (approximately $30,000 per year).

“Now, more than ever, it makes sense to sign up for assistance, especially those customers who have been scheduled to have their service shut off for non-payment,” said Doug Oliver, PGW Director of Corporate Communications.

Customers who are behind on their bills, or who have received a shut-off notice, should contact PGW immediately. Additional information is available by contacting PGW’s LIHEAP Hotline at 215-684-6100.

LIHEAP is a federally funded program that is administered by the state. This year, the state committed $20 million in funds to supplement the program, which began for this heating season on November 7. Previously, March 24 had been the deadline for submitting applications for the
grants.

Founded in 1836, PGW is the nation's largest municipally owned natural gas utility, serving more than 500,000 residential, commercial, and industrial customers.