On February 3, 2010, Governor Edward G. Rendell directed that additional federal funds be used to provide a $100 increase in grant amounts for the most vulnerable households enrolled in the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program: those over 60, with a disability or with children aged five and under.

The federally-funded LIHEAP helps low-income households stay warm in the winter months by paying for heat. It is administered by the Department of Public Welfare.

"With the additional $26 million in contingency funds received from the federal government, we are now able to implement the supplemental payments we hoped would become a reality for so many families trying to stay warm this winter," Governor Rendell said.

"This additional funding allows us to boost LIHEAP cash grants by an additional $100 for our most vulnerable households, providing relief to more than 300,000 households in need of help paying for their heat," the Governor added. "Many low-income families are facing significant increases in their home heating costs with the expiration of electric rate caps, so this extra help is sure to be very welcome."

Applications are available at county assistance offices, local utility companies and community service agencies, such as Area Agencies on Aging or community action agencies. Applications for LIHEAP cash grants will also be available online at www.compass.state.pa.us.

To ensure they have the resources to heat their homes the entire winter, LIHEAP consumers are urged to keep their thermostats at 65 degrees. Homes with young children or older adults should be kept no cooler than 68 degrees.

Visit www.turnsealsave.org to learn about available assistance programs, energy conservation and home weatherization tips.

Household sizes and income limits for LIHEAP's current season are listed below.

1 -- $16,245
2 -- $21,855
3 -- $27,465
4 -- $33,075
5 -- $38,685
6 -- $44,295
7 -- $49,905
8 -- $55,515
(For each additional person add $5,610).