By Rep. Stephan Bunker
The rising cost of living – and in particular, increasing energy costs – is one of the most common issues that I hear about from constituents. As we move into the fall season, I’ve spoken to a lot of folks in our community who are especially worried about being able to adequately heat their homes this winter.
The cost of home heating can hit a lot of Maine families hard, particularly those on fixed incomes. But no one should have to choose between paying a utility bill or paying for essentials like groceries and medicine. While recent actions from the federal government have created some funding instability, there are fortunately still state resources available to help Mainers afford to heat their homes this year in the colder months that lie ahead.
The Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP) is available to help eligible homeowners and renters pay for heating costs. If at some point this winter you find yourself in a situation with a dangerously low level of fuel, you may also qualify for crisis assistance through the Energy Crisis Intervention Program (ECIP).
Applications opened back on Aug. 1 and will continue until funds run out. There is a process you have to go through to determine eligibility, so I encourage you to apply as soon as you’re able. You can also qualify for energy-related repairs and utility payments if you are eligible for HEAP. Those who rely on electricity for heat may also be eligible for a credit on their electric utility bills through the Low Income Assistance Program (LIAP).
You can apply for both programs through our local community action agency, which is Western Maine Community Action (WMCA). You can visit their website here or reach them by phone at (207) 645-3764.
In addition to HEAP, WMCA also offers a Local Emergency Fuel Fund program, which can provide up to 50 gallons of fuel until the customer is connected to other resources. These funds are locally raised. You can find more information about that here.
If you happen to run into problems with your heating system, MaineHousing’s Central Heating Improvement Program (CHIP) provides heating system repair and replacement services to eligible households. WMCA also administers this program, so give them a call for more information regarding eligibility.
While the state provides critical heating resources, I know that some of our community members may still struggle this winter. Let's continue to look out for our neighbors. If you know someone in need as the temperature outside starts to dip, please reach out to me, and I may be able to connect them with these resources. I’m here to help, and I’m committed to fighting for ways to make our energy costs more affordable.
As always, if you have any questions, comments or concerns, please don’t hesitate to reach out. You can reach me by calling my office at (207) 287-1430 or by email at Stephan.Bunker@legislature.maine.gov.
Rep. Bunker is serving his first term in the Maine House of Representatives and serves on both the Criminal Justice and Public Safety Committee and the Agriculture, Conservation and Forestry Committee. He represents House District 75, which includes Farmington and Chesterville.
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