Helping Virginians Stay Warm This Winter

~ 2012 Fuel Assistance Application Deadline Is Nov. 9 ~

RICHMOND – Applications for Fuel Assistance from the Virginia Department of Social Services’ (VDSS) Energy Assistance Program (EAP) are being accepted now through Friday, Nov. 9. Families and individuals must apply through their local department of social services.

“With cooler temperatures predicted this winter, many Virginians will be facing higher heating costs,” said VDSS Commissioner Martin D. Brown. “Fuel Assistance can help reduce home heating costs by supplementing a portion of annual heating expenses. Many of our most vulnerable citizens are already struggling financially, so we’re encouraging them to submit an application, as soon as possible, to their local department of social services.”

To qualify for Fuel Assistance, a one-person household’s maximum gross monthly income cannot exceed $1,211. For a household of four, the maximum gross monthly income level is $2,498.

The Fuel Assistance Program assists with various types of energy sources, including electricity, natural and liquid propane gas, oil, kerosene, coal and wood. VDSS’ EAP is funded by the federal Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) block grant. LIHEAP provides funds to states to assist low-income households in meeting their home energy needs.

Last year, nearly 148,000 households received assistance. For more information on the EAP visit http://www.dss.virginia.gov/benefit/ea/index.cgi, to screen for services or apply online visit https://commonhelp.virginia.gov/access/.

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Interviews are available upon request. For media inquiries only, contact Melissa Perdue, VDSS,

(804) 726-7111 or melissa.perdue@dss.virginia.gov.

The general public should contact their local department of social services.