(Philadelphia, PA – March 12, 2007) – Last week, the Department of Public Welfare announced that the Low Income Home Energy Assistance (LIHEAP) and Crisis programs have been extended so that applications will be accepted through March 30.

In addition, Crisis grants have been increased to $400. LIHEAP recipients who have already received $300 in crisis benefits can now apply for an additional $100 if they experience another home heating emergency.

LIHEAP cash grants help families pay their home heating bills and are based on household income and family size. For instance, a family of four with an annual income of up to $30,000 can qualify for assistance. In addition to verification of income and household size, applicants must provide social security numbers for everyone in the household and a recent gas bill.

Crisis grants help families with heating emergencies when their natural gas service is shut-off or threatened to be shut off. To apply, PGW customers must visit a neighborhood energy center or a community-based organization.

PGW customers who are behind on their gas bills or who have received a shut-off notice should contact PGW immediately at 215-235-1777. Additional information is available online at www.pgworks.com or by contacting PGW’s LIHEAP Hotline at 215-684-6100.

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