Energy Assistance (LIHEAP and WAP)

Energy Assistance (LIHEAP and WAP)

Government-funded energy assistance programs improve health and safety in the homes of eligible children with cerebral palsy. The Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) and the Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) provide eligible households with utility payment assistance and energy-related home repairs. Each energy assistance program is managed by its local state agencies.

Types of aid may include assistance with utility payments, funding to help avoid shut-off or termination of utility services, and help to make homes safer and more energy efficient. Depending on available funding, weatherization service providers may examine electrical and heating/cooling systems, provide appliance analysis, insulate homes, repair windows or doors, apply weatherstripping, fix furnaces and air conditioners, and perform other home safety checks.

Although local agencies determine eligibility and services, income is the primary qualification. Individuals already receiving Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) or Supplemental Security Income (SSI) may in some cases qualify for weatherization programs automatically.

Resources

Helpful information on Energy Assistance (LIHEAP and WAP) and other forms of government assistance can be found on the following websites:

• Energy Assistance – Benefits.gov, the official benefits website of the U.S. government, provides energy assistance information for state and local LIHEAP and WAP contacts
• LIHEAP – For further information on Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program eligibility, services, and assistance, the U.S. Administration for Children and Families (ACF) website provides general information and state LIHEAP offices
  • General Information
  • State LIHEAP Offices
• WAP – For further information on Weatherization Assistance Program (WAP) eligibility, services, and assistance, the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) website provides general information and state weatherization offices
  • General Information
  • State Weatherization Offices
• Administration for Children and Families (ACF) list of local Social Service Agencies
• American Public Human Services Association list of state Human Services agencies

RESOURCES How MyChild™ Can Help

Knowing about resources and opportunities can make a difference, but knowing how to find and qualify for those resources is key.

MyChild™ recognizes that families touched by cerebral palsy are busy. Raising a child with mobility impairment requires doctor visits, treatments, therapies, and a host of responsibilities within the home, school, and community. MyChild™ hopes to help. Your time is precious.

Over the years, MyChild™ has expanded our database of contacts, information, and resources, which may be of assistance. We share general information online, but also offer a wealth of state and local information that may be more appropriate to particular circumstances and an individual child’s needs through our call center.

MyChild™ operates a call center to efficiently assist parents and others with questions and concerns. Call 1-800-MyChild (1-800-692-4453) for resources within your community, based on your family’s particular circumstances.

GETTING STARTED WITH GOVERNMENTAL ASSISTANCE

Government assistance plans that may be helpful include:

• Children’s Health Insurance Plan (CHIP)
• Energy Assistance (LIHEAP and WAP)
• Medicaid
• Medicare
• Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
• Supplemental Security Income (SSI)
• Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF)
• Women, Infant and Children Supplemental Nutrition Program (WIC)

Return to the main Government Assistance page.