Applications open Tuesday for LIHEAP energy assistance program in Louisville

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Heat-related illnesses are the leading cause of weather-related deaths.

Despite temperatures nearing 100 degrees this summer, some people in Jefferson County are living without air conditioning.

People living in Louisville can apply for electrical assistance starting on Tuesday. The Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program helps households offset summer cooling costs.

Tonia Stewart is a caregiver and is currently in between jobs.

"It's been hard because I've always been able to take care of myself," Stewart said. "I think about it every time I go to work. Jobs are just not stable like they used to be."

The 2024 LIHEAP Summer Subsidy goes from July 16-Sept. 13, or until designated funds are depleted on a first-come, first-serve basis. Applicants must be Jefferson County residents with a household income at or below 150% of the federal poverty guidelines. For a family of four, that's $3,900 per month or less.

"So many people are in need and you don't think about it until you are in that situation," Stewart said. "You go on living your life from day-to-day and you don't think about 'hey I don't have to worry about that.' You should worry about it, because your job is not guaranteed to you."

The summer program is a one-time benefit ranging from $50 to $250, depending on income levels and housing category. Benefits are paid directly to the home's electric vendor.

LIHEAP is typically offered in the winter months to help with heat costs. American Rescue Plan funding has allowed the city to help people in the summer months this year.

Stewart said people shouldn't be embarrassed to ask for help.

"I once was that person. Pride can destroy you if you let it stay in your way," Stewart said. "It's time to just be humble, ask for the help and watch your blessings come through. Just ask, it doesn't hurt to ask. You go to the doctor, you ask all kinds of questions, it doesn't hurt you to ask them. It shouldn't hurt you to ask for help from somebody you don't know if they're willing to help you."

Residents can call the automated LIHEAP information line at (502) 991-8391 or click here to schedule an appointment.

LIHEAP office locations:

Bridges of Hope Neighborhood Place, 1411 Algonquin Parkway, Louisville, Ky. 40210
Newburg Community Center, 4810 Exeter Avenue, Louisville, Ky. 40218
South Central Neighborhood Place, 4255 Hazelwood Avenue, Louisville, Ky. 40215
Ujima Neighborhood Place, 3610 Bohne Avenue, Louisville, Ky. 40211
Northwest Neighborhood Place, 4018 W. Market Street, Louisville, Ky. 40212
Cane Run Neighborhood Place, 3410 Lees Lane, Louisville, Ky. 40216
Charmoli Center Neighborhood Place, 9100 Markfield Road, Suite 100, Louisville, Ky. 40222

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