The deadline for the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) has been extended to April 30, or until funds have been exhausted. Big Sandy Area Community Action Program (BSACAP) will be taking applications for the extended Crisis component of LIHEAP at each of their county offices.

The Crisis component of LIHEAP provides assistance to low-income households experiencing heating emergencies. Households that have received their maximum benefit for 2019, may not re-apply.

BSACAP Executive Director Wanda Thacker said the agency has been granted more money this year to distribute. “We have already reached nearly 700 more clients this year when compared to last year, so we are delighted to have the opportunity to help even more people pay their electric bills and ensure their home energy needs are met.” Thacker said the April 30th extension will allow people the time needed to gather their documents and visit one of their county offices.

Households are considered to be in a home heating crisis if:

  • the household is within four days of running out of fuel if bulk fuel (coal, fuel oil, propane, kerosene, or wood) is the primary heating source; or
  • the household has received a disconnect notice if natural gas or electric is the heating source; or
  • the household’s home heating costs are included in the rent and the household has received an eviction notice for non-payment of rent.

To be eligible for Crisis assistance, households must verify their address, verify a heating crisis exists and meet federal income eligibility guidelines. Applicants also must apply in their county of residence.

In addition, applicants must present the following:

  • Proof of household income for prior month;
  • Birthdates for all household members;
  • Social security card or official documentation with social security numbers for each member of household.

Applications will be taken at the following BSACAP service offices Monday through Friday from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.:

Floyd County
60 Court Street
Allen, Ky.
606-874-3595

Martin County
387 E. Main Street
Inez, Ky.
606-298-3217

Johnson County
230 Court Street
Paintsville, Ky.
606-789-6515

Pike County
478 Town Mountain Road
Pikeville, Ky.
606-432-2775

Magoffin County
131 S. Church Street
Salyersville, Ky.
606-349-2217

LIHEAP, a national energy assistance initiative funded by the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, is funded in Kentucky by the state Cabinet for Health and Family Services and Community Action Kentucky.