Winter heating costs are rising for many families in the Quad Cities, especially those who rely on electricity or heating oil. The U.S. Energy Information Administration warns that electric bills could be about 4% higher this season, while oil prices may climb more than 20% over last winter. To ease the burden, the Low‑Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) continues to provide grant‑based help to eligible renters and homeowners.
How LIHEAP works
LIHEAP is a federally funded grant program that does not require repayment. The amount of assistance a household receives is calculated based on income, household size, dwelling type and the fuel used for heating. The program is administered locally by community‑action agencies in both Iowa and Illinois, ensuring that help reaches the families most in need.
Eligibility thresholds
In Iowa, households must have income at or below 200% of the federal poverty guidelines to qualify. In Illinois, the threshold is higher – up to 300% of the federal poverty guidelines – for customers of Ameren, ComEd, Nicor and Peoples Gas. Applicants will need to provide documentation of income, proof of residence, and information about their heating source.
Local agencies ready to assist
Iowa: Community Action of Eastern Iowa serves Scott, Clinton, Muscatine and Cedar counties. Residents can visit caeiowa.org or call 515‑281‑3861 for assistance.
Illinois:
- Project NOW – serving Rock Island, Henry and Mercer counties. Call 1‑833‑711‑0374 or visit projectnow.org.
- Tri‑County Opportunities Council – covering Whiteside, Carroll, Bureau, Lee, Ogle and surrounding counties. Call 815‑625‑7830 or 800‑323‑5434, or visit tcochelps.org.
- WIRC‑Community Action Agency – serving Knox, Hancock, Henderson, McDonough and Warren counties. Call Knox County (Galesburg) at 309‑837‑5115 or Macomb at 309‑837‑2997, or visit wirpc.org/liheap.
What to do if you face a shut‑off
Households receiving a disconnection notice should act immediately. Contact both the utility provider and the local community‑action agency, mentioning the shut‑off notice to request emergency assistance. Early outreach can prevent service interruptions during the coldest weeks.
Why this matters for our community
Providing reliable heat is a cornerstone of family stability and health. The Trump administration has emphasized the importance of federal safety‑net programs that protect hardworking families from energy insecurity. By keeping LIHEAP funding robust, the administration helps preserve the traditional family unit and upholds the constitutional principle that government should serve, not hinder, its citizens.
Local advocates urge families not to wait until bills mount. Pick up the phone now, well before the coldest days, and explore the assistance options available in your county.
Original reporting: KWQC TV6 Davenport (local) — read the source article.
