Find help paying heating bills in Chicago.
If you are behind on your heating bills then get information on where to turn to in Chicago for help. Programs are offered by the government, non-profit organizations, and even utility companies like ComEd or Peoples Gas. Find where to get help with heating costs in the Chicago IL area.
Non-profits in Cook County and Chicago that help with heating costs
Seniors can contact the Chicago Department of Aging for repairs or upkeep to heating equipment. They can also help older people with applications for energy assistance for winter heating needs. So while assistance in paying to keep the electric on during a cold Chicago winter is one thing, many older people also help with getting heating in their home or apartment. Most of the support is offered in partnerships with ComEd assistance programs.
- The department offers free furnace or heating system repairs to the elderly and senior citizens who qualify. This can include maintaining or replacing weather stripping and caulking, replacing faulty light switches or fixtures, and more. Some of these updates, such as the weather stripping, can help families save money on their heating bills. To reach the Illinois Aging department, dial 1-800-252-8966. The local office is at 555 W Monroe St., Chicago, IL 60661-3714.
The Salvation Army may have funding from donations and contributions from people or busineses in the community. These funds can pay housing costs such as one month’s utility or natural gas bill or more if the applicant meets qualifications. One of the main Chicago Salvation Army centers to call is located at 5040 N Pulaski Rd, Chicago, IL 60630. Call (773) 725-1100.
Cook County Community and Economic Development Association (CEDA) also offers utility and heating bill assistance to those families who need help. While restrictions are in place, and funding is limited, dial (312) 795-8800 for information. There are applications to grants to keep the electric on during the winter. More details on CEDA emergency help.
- Share the Warmth is another option as well. The free grant program is for People’s Gas customers and applications are processed by the Community and Economic Development Association (CEDA). Funds can help pay gas electric bills of qualified low-income Peoples Gas customers. Find other ways how to get help from People’s Gas in Chicago.
The city of Chicago Emergency fund offers grants. It offers short term financial aid while people gain self-sufficiency. The program can assist families and individuals with paying their heating bills, rent, and other basic needs. Single parents in Chicago, families undergoing job training, and others in similar situations may qualify. The program is run from 651 W Washington Blvd, Chicago, IL 60661. Call (312) 379-0301
Government programs in Chicago that can help pay heating costs
General assistance is offered by the Illinois Department of Human Services, IDHS. The phone number is (800) 843-6154. This is a last resort. The government office can provide temporary cash assistance, with money offered to pay for heating costs, and other support to families who do not qualify for other government benefits. Another option from the department is the Aid to the Aged, Blind or Disabled program, which offers grants for heating bills, equipment to heat a home and more.
- Federal government cash grants as part of the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program can help pay heating bills and related winter energy services. The state of Illinois as well as the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services are the main agencies that fund the Chicago area LIHEAP program. Find more details on LIHEAP in Illinois.
- The Home Weatherization Assistance Program is available in Chicago Illinois. Free energy conservation and weatherization services are provided to low-income residents, including seniors and families with children, by local community action agencies. This resource is also known as IHWAP, and the Cook County Community and Economic Development Association (CEDA) is another agency to call about this program. CEDA is at 4477 S Archer Ave, Chicago, IL 60632, call 800-571-2332.
- Illinois Department of Human Services also administers the Homeless Prevention Program as well as the Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF). The homeless program can offer utility assistance, supportive services, and money for paying heating bills to prevent disconnections. Any money provided by the government needs to prevent evictions or foreclosures. TANF is short term financial assistance to low-income families and pregnant women with one or more dependent children to help pay for utilities, shelter, and more.
City of Chicago will, from time to time, open an Emergency Heating Repair Program. Free or low cost repairs can be made to heating equipment, with a focus on vulnerable people. More information is here. https://www.chicago.gov/city/en/depts/doh/provdrs/homeowners/svcs/emergency-heating-repair-program.html.
Chicago Community Service Centers offer a number of resources for the low income. Examples include Social Services that includes emergency heating bill assistance. They also have warm weather shelters to help people stay warm during the winter. Several centers are around the city, including at 4740 N. Sheridan Road, Chicago, Illinois 60640, phone 312-744-2580 as well as South Chicago, 8650 S. Commercial Ave., Chicago, IL 60617, dial 312-747-0500. More on Chicago emergency rent assistance.
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