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Assistance is available for energy costs for those who qualify beginning Oct. 1, but applicants must adhere to certain COVID-19 restrictions. Mercer County’s Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), offered in coordination with the New Jersey Department of Community Affairs, is designed to help low-income families and individuals meet home heating and medically necessary cooling costs. This year, the LIHEAP application period is Oct. 1 through July 31, 2021. Mercer County will continue accepting applications for the Universal Service Fund (USF) Program throughout the year. Residents who pay their own heating costs, and meet the income guidelines, may be eligible to receive financial assistance with their winter heating bill. Residents with medical conditions also may be eligible to receive cooling assistance. An eligibility chart can be found on the Mercer County website. |
“The effects of the COVID-19 pandemic have created financial hardships for many households that now have to worry about the cost of heating and other energy bills,” Hughes said in a prepared statement. “I urge our low-income residents to visit our website or contact the county housing office to determine their eligibility to apply for energy assistance.”
Due to COVID-19 restrictions, the public may visit the Mercer County Office of Housing and Community Development, located at 640 South Broad St., Trenton, by appointment only. If an in-person visit is necessary, clients can call 609-337-0933 or email [email protected] to schedule an appointment.
Beginning Oct. 1, the county will temporarily begin operating an outdoor informational center adjacent to the 640 South Broad St. building. Clients will be able to drop off applications and access information from LIHEAP staff.
The county will continue to accept applications by regular mail, fax and email until July 31, 2021. Applications, forms and information are available at www.mercercounty.org