Low-Income Energy Assistance (LEAP) 

Is Now A Mail-In Program Only

 

Durango, CO – As Coloradans prepare to face another cold winter; help is available for La Plata County residents struggling to pay their heating bills through Goodwill Industries in Colorado Springs who is now administering the Low-income Energy Assistance Program (LEAP) with a mail-in process. 

Aid is available to households with members that are U.S. citizens and Colorado residents.  LEAP will not cover residents’ entire heating bills.  To qualify, applicants must be responsible for paying heating costs directly to an energy provider, fuel dealer, or as part of rent.  The homeowner’s monthly income and number of members living in the home determine assistance. 

Due to federal budget cuts, income criteria for the LEAP program was reduced from 185% to 150% of the federal poverty guidelines.  The average benefit will be $325 per household.  Applications are available Nov 1, 2011 through April 30, 2012, at La Plata County Human Services, most fuel vendors, La Plata Electric Association, local libraries, and at many community agencies. 

For additional information regarding LEAP, please call 1-866-HEAT HELP (1-866-432-8435), or the LEAP Call Center at 1-888-775-5327.