Winter Utility Financial Assistance from SCCAP

Energy Assistance Program

South Central Community Action Program (SCCAP) is once again providing financial assistance with winter fuel/heating bills for households in Monroe County for the upcoming 2021–22 season.

The Energy Assistance Program (EAP) is an annual program that assists members of our community who have household incomes at or below 60% of the State Median Income. This program is available to Hoosiers renting and for those who own their home. You do not need to have fallen behind on your heating or electric bills to qualify.

The EAP offers a direct-pay benefit to a household's utility company, or a benefit in the form of a check from the State for those households whose utilities are included in rent.

Eligibility for the program is based on total household income. For program year 2021–22, income limits by family size are as follows:

  • 1 Person: $27,012
  • 2 People: $35,324
  • 3 People: $43,635
  • 4 People: $51,947
  • 5 People: $60,259

“The program is intended to keep everyone safe and healthy, and to assist them in achieving energy self-sufficiency and avoiding utility disruptions,” said Julie Wilson, Energy Assistance Program Manager at SCCAP. “The average benefit our clients received in 2020–21 was over $600.”

 

Heat and Electricity Supplemental Benefit

Additionally, the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) is providing supplemental benefits in response to the pandemic. All EAP-eligible households will be awarded $175 toward heat and $175 toward electricity for a total benefit of $350, in addition to the household’s standard EAP benefit.

 

Water Assistance Supplemental Benefit

Indiana’s Low-Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP) is a temporary emergency program to help low-income households and families afford water and wastewater services during the COVID-19 pandemic. LIHWAP is a one-time benefit that helps with past due bills of $50 or more. This program is only available when you apply for EAP; applicants cannot apply for water assistance at a later date.

 

Apply Online or at the Library

Applications are being accepted now, however the program doesn’t officially begin until November 1. You can apply online at home, or use a public computer at the Downtown Library or Ellettsville Branch. A direct link is available on all public computers. Library staff are also available to assist you. Applicants will be required to scan and upload documents and identification. Scanners are free to use at both Library locations.

Beginning October 4, you may call 2-1-1 for assistance navigating the EAP application system. Indiana 2-1-1 offers free and confidential support for Hoosiers. 

To request a paper application be mailed to you, please call 812-339-3447 or email eap [at] insccap.org with your name and address.