The Lee County Department of Human Services has money to assist low-income households with their utility bills. Due to the recent cold weather, funding has been released for the Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) to help with electric bills for heating and electric costs, according to Bill Lawyer, administrative specialist with Lee County Human Service.

Total household gross income must be at, or below, 150 percent of the poverty level. Households having a difficult time paying their electric bill that have already received LIHEAP should still call to see they are eligible for assistance, Lawyer said.

LIHEAP is available in two sections:

LIHEAP Regular – Not for deposits or to prevent disconnection. This is a once-per-year benefit and the maximum benefit is $300.

LIHEAP Crisis – Available for deposits/re-connection or to prevent disconnection. The maximum benefit is currently $600 and available twice per year; once during the winter season (Oct. 1 March 31) and once during the summer season (April 1 Sept. 30).

Electric bill must either show a past-due amount, or be a final or disconnect notice.

Lawyer said applications for LIHEAP are taken by appointment only. Call 239-533-7900 on Friday mornings after 8 a.m. and follow prompts 1, 5, and 2 for an appointment.