Dollar Energy Fund provides home heating grants

Eligible customers can receive up to $500 in assistance; other support also available 

Is somebody in your life experiencing financial hardship and struggling to pay utility bills? 

Peoples Natural Gas, an Essential Utilities company, wants to alert its customers of the many resources available for individuals and families in need. One of the most impactful programs, Dollar Energy Fund (DEF), opens for the 2024-25 heating season on Tuesday, October 1. Eligible Peoples customers can access grants of up to $500 through DEF, available on a first-come, first-served basis.   

To qualify for a one-time payment from DEF, customers must have a total gross household income at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty level, and meet the following criteria:  

• Gas service is off or in threat of termination
• Applied for Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP)/Crisis benefits (when available)
• Account is for residential service (single family or apartment)
• Name on the account is an adult currently living in the household   
• Made a good faith payment to the account (within the last 90 days of applying for the grant)  

Customers can use DEF’s income calculator to determine if their gross income is within the eligibility range.

“Cooler weather is on its way and we at Peoples want everyone to keep their home warm,” said Rita Black, Director of Community Assistance Programs. “Our team is just a phone call away, ready to give support in applying for Dollar Energy Fund, and other assistance programs we offer. If you’re concerned about making ends meet, call us at 1-800-400-WARM, or use our online ProgramFinder today.”  

Peoples customers can visit https://www.hardshiptools.org/MyApp/ to apply or contact their local DEF agency for assistance. In addition to DEF grants, Peoples offers several programs to assist with paying bills and making home repairs or improvements that improve energy efficiency. 

If you or someone you know needs assistance, call 1-800-400-WARM (9276) or visit peoples-gas.com/help to learn more.