Because weatherization is vital to enduring the winter months, the federal and state governments run the Weatherization Assistance Program. This program, created in 1976, helps lower energy consumption as well as costs for lower income families. The Weatherization Assistance Program works with states’ LIHEAP (Lower Income Home Energy Assistance Program) so as to help alleviate what is referred to as energy poverty, which is the inability to afford or gain access to energy services such as gas and electricity. According to the Weatherization Assistance Program, families whose houses are weatherized are expected to save $358 on their first year’s utility bills with the program.
Some of the services of the Weatherization Assistance Program are:
- Air sealing to reduce air leakage throughout the home
- Installation of insulation for the home’s attic, walls, basement, and other spaces.
- Replacement or modification of the home’s heating system so as to increase efficiency
- Minor repairs to ensure the health and safety of the home’s residents
- Education for the program recipients on how to increase efficiency throughout the home
In order to be eligible for the Weatherization Assistance Program, you must be a low income individual or family (at or below 200% of the federal poverty level). The program does give priority to the elderly and families with children. Also, before receiving any services, on site audits are conducted to assess the conditions of the home to see which services are necessary.
If you think you or someone you know is eligible for this program, United Way encourages you to apply for the services this program offers. For instructions on how to apply, please call Community Action Agency at (610) 891-5117. Energy poverty is a dangerous condition to your health and the health of your family. So please, help is available and apply for the assistance you need! If you have any questions, feel free to comment on this particular blog entry or email us at info@uwdelco.org
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