PSE&G ASSISTANCE

As we are all aware, we are living in uncertain economic times. Many of our friends, neighbors and those we work with and for are experiencing financial hardships and facing very challenging circumstances. Some have never had to reach out before and therefore may not be aware of the help that is available.
However, there is a bit of a silver lining, and it pertains to the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program, commonly known as LIHEAP. New Jersey received $185 million to fund the LIHEAP program this year and has made three key enhancements that you need to be aware of:

•Income limits have been increased, which allows more households to be eligible for the program. For example, a family of four can make $3,975 per month and still be eligible; this is almost $1,000 more than last year. The full list of guidelines is available at the church office or online at pseg.com

•Grant amounts have also increased. The average benefit for gas heating customers is $387, a 19% increase over last year, while oil fuel benefits have increased by 400%, with an average benefit being $1296.

•The LIHEAP application intake period has also been extended through April 30, 2009. Applications and information about LIHEAP and other energy assistance programs are available at any of the 16 PSE&G Customer Service Centers or by visiting our English/Spanish website at www.pseg.com/billassitance