Philadelphia Gas Works (PGW) and Peco have announced that they will not disconnect services to low-income households during the ongoing federal government shutdown. This commitment comes as the shutdown delays the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), which is now set to begin on December 3, 2023, after being previously scheduled for November 3, 2023.
The LIHEAP program is vital, providing assistance to families struggling to pay their heating bills, especially during the cold winter months. According to State Representative Jordan Harris, the federal government shutdown poses a significant risk to thousands of families in Pennsylvania, exacerbating issues of hunger and energy insecurity. In the past two years, Pennsylvania has distributed over $200 million in assistance through LIHEAP, helping many vulnerable households stay warm during the winter.
Many residents, like Sophie Alfonsi-Connaire, a Havertown homeowner, are already feeling the effects of rising heating costs driven by inflation, the war in Ukraine, and other global factors. As heating bills continue to rise, the assurance from PGW and Peco provides some relief to those who may fear losing access to essential services.
In light of the government shutdown, Harris emphasized the importance of reaching out to local energy providers for assistance. Residents are encouraged to apply for help through PGW and Peco directly. Harris has urged those in need to connect with their local representatives for additional support and guidance on enrolling in utility assistance programs.
As the situation develops, the Pennsylvania Department of Human Services will have to reassess the LIHEAP application timeline if the government shutdown persists. The ongoing freeze on federal services, including the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), highlights the critical need for state and local interventions to support low-income families.
The partnership between PGW and Peco during this challenging time has been praised by Harris, who stated, “I appreciate both PGW and Peco, and their leadership, for stepping up in this moment and taking meaningful action to keep vulnerable households connected to essential services.”
For those needing assistance with utility programs, contacting local representatives or using the “Find My Legislator” tool can be valuable resources. The collaboration of energy companies and government officials aims to mitigate the impact of the federal shutdown on the most vulnerable members of the community.
