LIHEAP Outreach Activities | The LIHEAP Clearinghouse

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Note: Outreach is an important aspect of administering LIHEAP, both at the state and local level. Effective outreach means the most needy households, or those the state has prioritized such as elderly or disabled, are made aware of the program as well as of other energy-related programs for which they may be eligible. Effective outreach can also streamline the application process.

In their annual LIHEAP plans, LIHEAP grantees are asked to check which of the following activities are conducted in order to assure that eligible households are made aware of all available LIHEAP assistance. The information below is from state LIHEAP plans.

In addition to the six activities listed, states also identified other means of outreach. These include toll-free phone lines operated by at least 10 states and special assistance such as translation and bilingual brochures to non-English speaking households.

At least eight states had special outreach for recipients of public assistance programs such as welfare and food stamps. This outreach was in the form of either mass mailings of applications to these households, early application periods, early notification, or pre-authorization.

States are required by statute to accept applications for energy crisis assistance at sites that are geographically accessible to all households in the area to be served.

Alabama

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs

Alaska

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs

Information is put on the Heating Assistance website. We take advantage of other opportunities to make presentations as they arise. For FY 2024 we are looking into radio advertising to increase our reach and application numbers. We are looking into placing ads with some social media platforms such as Facebook, Linked In, etc. We plan to work with the Food Bank of Alaska to create awareness of the program with their staff and clients. This effort will include

providing applications for them and other food banks to include in their Thanksgiving food boxes. Investigating placing ads with smaller, rural publications.

Identify Tribal newsletters that would be willing to put an article in their publications about the program and then send them an article. Work with Tribal organizations to co-sponsor outreach to their members.

American Samoa

Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs.

Recently, we have had an influx of new clients referred to us by the utility vendor, the American Samoa Power Authority (ASPA). We also distribute informational fliers, pamphlets and brochures to partner government agencies, i.e., the Territorial Administration on Aging (TAOA), Office for the Protection & Advocacy for the Disabled (OPAD) an,d the Department of Public Health. School outreach under the State Energy Program (SEP). Lastly, because we are a small island, the coconut wireless or word of mouth still remains the fastest method of advertisement for LIHEAP. 2023: A video sponsored by OCS features American Samoa (Voices From The Field).

Arizona

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs

CAA’s and CAA Subcontractors periodically hold mass intake events.

Arkansas

Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups

LIHEAP opening and closing are announced on the E&E | AEO website. We require CBOs to conduct outreach activities, place information on their websites, release information to local news media and mail applications to vulnerable households with SNAP recipients or that have received LIHEAP assistance during the previous season. AEO responds to all media inquiries that the department receives regarding the LIHEAP program. An interagency agreement is executed between AEO and Arkansas DHS for the purpose of sharing data related to the SNAP program.

California

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups

Partnerships with utility companies

Outreach to legislative offices, community organizations, County Health Departments, and attendance at community events
Referrals to CSD’s programs from child care centers
Pamphlets
Toll-free phone line
CSD’s website
Contractors’ websites
Special events
Canvass neighborhoods and go door to door
Distribute flyers at schools

Colorado

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups

A media campaign is conducted each year that includes paid advertisements on television, interviews on major state wide news stations, interviews on a Spanish speaking network, ads on radio stations and monthly publications in local newspapers. The State maintains a website that provides eligibility information, a current application and instructions on the application process. Colorado LIHEAP also maintains a toll-free phone line, which is highly publicized. The customer service representatives provide information on the LIHEAP application process, answer questions, assist with taking applications over the phone and will provide the customer with instructions to access the application online or mail applications to interested households. The Colorado Department of Human Services maintains a website that provides information about the program, criteria, directions on how to apply, access to an application that can be downloaded and a link to an on-line application.

Connecticut

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs

The state maintains a website with up to date information for residents and vendors and operate an Emergency Assistance Hotline at 1.800.842.1132. In our Regional Offices, information about the program is posted on the DSS Digital Network. the United Way of CT, through its DSS funded 2-1-1 toll free service and on its website (www.211.ct.org) or text CTWARM to 898211, provides program and contact information for energy assistance intake sites throughout the state. In efforts to ensure CT's most vulnerable residents have access to the LIHEAP resource, we have expanded access to applications, households may apply online, by email, mail and may initiate an application via telephone where we accept electronic signatures. Local Community Action Agencies maintain websites with updated information as well. Meetings with our deliverable fuel vendors are also convened annually to keep them apprised of program changes. An early application period is used at the beginning of the program to allow agencies time to provide outreach to households, especially those that are vulnerable and/or homebound. An early application period is used at the beginning of the program to allow agencies time to provide outreach to vulnerable households, especially those that are homebound.

Delaware

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs

LIHEAP intake services by telephone for the physically infirmed (ie., elderly or disabled). Delaware LIHEAP also conducts outreach by providing various informational booklets and calendars when they are available. In addition, Delaware works closely with energy vendors and other non-profits to increase the awareness of program.

District of Columbia

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups

LIHEAP staff regularly conducts targeted outreach in coordination with DOEE’s Office of Community Engagement and Outreach. Staff visits and engages with Advisory Neighborhood Commission meetings, senior citizen housing complexes, and other local organizations to present program information for the upcoming fiscal year. DOEE’s annual mass mailing for the District’s Utility Discount Programs (UDP) includes information about LIHEAP assistance.

Florida

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups

FloridaCommerce’s website contains information concerning income eligibility and lists LIHEAP Subrecipients and their contact information. FloridaCommerce holds an annual Utility Vendor Meeting to highlight LIHEAP and to receive feedback from vendors on their LIHEAP Subrecipients activities to assist LIHEAP clients.

Georgia

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups.

Hawaii

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups

Send and provide LIHEAP flyers to all who are interested parties, non-profit organizations, elderly and disabled individuals and agencies servicing the vulnerable population.
Provide LIHEAP flyers to electric company for distribution to customers.
Request that the Utility Companies encourage their customers who are expressing difficulty paying their bills to apply for LIHEAP.
Provide LIHEAP flyers to electric company for distribution to customers.
Request that the Utility Companies encourage their customers who are expressing difficulty paying their bills to apply for LIHEAP.
Utility companies include LIHEAP reminders about LIHEAP by printing information on a monthly newsletter that is included with monthly bills, for two months. If space available on the bill they will print LIHEAP information regarding application period directly on the bill.
Gas Company provided with posters to put in their offices for the gas customers.
Utility companies will provide LIHEAP applications in their bill collection offices.
Utility companies provide literature, freebies and personnel to assist CAPS in their efforts in promoting LIHEAP benefits and performance measures.
Local CAPS, as part of their outreach efforts, provide public service announcements via their agency website, radio and newspapers.
LIHEAP coordinator participates in interagency work groups, provides informational sessions to interested agencies and groups, and works with the electric company in a community work group.
In remote areas, contracted community agencies will go door to door to speak with homebound residents.

Idaho

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs

Illinois

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance

Use of social media (Facebook and Twitter) to inform households of the availability of LIHEAP and share important information. In addition, Local Administering Agencies will continue utilizing the LIHEAP Unreturned Customer report to reach out prior year customers who have not applied for assistance yet. Outreach is one of the Grant Agreement Conditions with our 33 LIHEAP Local Administering Agencies (LAAs). All of these outreach activities are covered by the Department and/or the LAAs. The Department is currently working with an experienced marketing communications and public relations Vendor to run a robust marketing campaign aiming at expanding access and broadening visibility to the State of Illinois' Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP), the Low Income Household Water Assistance Program (LIHWAP), the Community Services Block Grant Program (CSBG) and the Illinois Home Weatherization Program (IHWAP).

Indiana

lace posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups

Most outreach is incumbent upon the subgrantees. IHCDA has begun taking a more hands-on role in statewide promotion, and promotes the program on social media as well as at community events.

Iowa

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups

Local agencies develop and conduct outreach activities individualized to the specific communities they serve.

Kansas

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income program
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups

A toll-free number is available for clients. DCF also provides weatherization a list of all recipients of LIHEAP to target services to those with potential need. DCF has an online application process to allow clients to access many of our benefit programs through the internet, including LIHEAP.

Kentucky

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs

The Division of Family Support sends a memorandum to each of the local Department of Community Based Services (DCBS) offices notifying field staff of dates, times, and locations of the agencies in order to recipients to apply. This information is posted in the lobby or waiting rooms for each DCBS office. Information regarding cooling changes will be posted to the Cabinet for Health and Families (CHFS) website, Community Action Kentucky (CAK) website, and 22 local Community Action Agencies' websites, as well as Louisville Metro Community Action Partnership's web page and FaceBook.Outreach materials will be distributed to places in the community where low-income citizens are likely to see them such as: Facebook pages, websites, resource sites, Senior Citizen Centers, Head Start Centers, State Offices, Community Centers, DCBS Offices, Department for Employment Services Offices, Courthouses, County Extension Offices, Post Offices, libraries, local vendors, other non-profit Social Service Agencies (Red Cross, Salvation Army, Legal Aid etc.), grocery stores, laundromats, etc.

Louisiana

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs

Presentations at community and school meetings. Off-site event for distribution (Housing conferences, seminars, churches, community centers, etc.) Registered with Aunt Bertha and Unite Us Louisiana for referrals by healthcare, State, and other organizations.

Maine

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs

Mariana Islands

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups

Maryland

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs

OHEP has a robust annual outreach planning process through which local agencies identify specific goals and craft localized strategies suit able to their particular jurisdiction. Local Administering Agencies (local Departments of Social Services, local jurisdictions, and contracted Community Action Agencies) submit the annual plan, which includes a supplemental request for additional outreach funding from State Special Funds. These plans include all events, targeted outreach efforts, advertising, and partnerships planned for the year. OHEP then approves a final plan and Local Administering Agencies submit a monthly Outreach Log detailing the activities performed in the month and the results of each activity. Outreach activities are further monitored during the formal program monitoring process.

On July 1, 2019, Maryland launched an important outreach effort and streamlined process for the medically vulnerable. Through the Critical Medical Needs Program (CMNP) “Navigators” are trained to work within hospitals and health care communities to assist clients with energy assistance applications. Navigators provide risk assessments, counseling, and assistance with energy suppliers. Applications are submitted directly to OHEP for expeditious processing to ensue maintenance or restoration of service. The program also partners with Benefits Data Trust to conduct targeted outreach to older adults receiving Medicaid that have not applied for energy assistance. Through a central call center, Benefits Data Trust provides remote application assistance and document collection and coordinate direct submission of applications to local LIHEAP offices.

Massachusetts

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs

DHCD and its Subgrantees maintain working relationships with other state agencies such as DTA, especially the SNAP office. DHCD will continue to partner with both state and outside resources to promote the LIHEAP program and explore new partnerships and methods of outreach. The MA Registry of Motor Vehicles will have an LIHEAP advertisement run on its waiting rooms monitors. Using DHCD LIHEAP materials, the Department of Veteran Services will send an email blast to the Veterans’ Officers in cities and towns across the Commonwealth to promote the program. DHCD will also partner with the Department of Public Health's Women Infant and Children (WIC) program to promote LIHEAP among WIC customers and connect local WIC office with local administrating agencies. DHCD plans to hire a digital consultant to develop a social media marketing plan to better promote the program through targets advertisements on various social media applications.

Michigan

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups

Michigan informs low-income applicants of the availability of LIHEAP via notices to clients, State websites, letters, posters, publications, weatherization referrals, United Way's phone referral system and regular involvement with the Coalition to Keep Michigan Warm. DHHS is also a contributing member to the State of Michigan's Low Income Energy Waste Reduction work group and provides information about LIHEAP services to the other stakeholders and service providers.

Minnesota

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs

The State issues press releases regarding LIHEAP. The State may work with other entities such as AARP to mail postcards to households.
Commerce partners with other statewide low-income programs to conduct outreach. The mass mailing to prior-year LIHEAP recipients includes an application for the upcoming program year. The above outreach activities are allowable outreach activities the local EAP Service Providers may provide in their area.

Mississippi

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups

Missouri

Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups

Regarding mass mailings, the applicant is responsible for completing, signing, attaching required documentation, and returning the application to the contract agency designated to process their application for services. LIHEAP has a brochure (English and Spanish versions) located on it's website. This brochure can be accessed by anyone for printing and distribution. The LIHEAP team speaks at varied meetings/activities to share information regarding Missouri's LIHEAP. The department communications office issues press releases and posts these on the LIHEAP website, Facebook, and Twitter.

Montana

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups

Each administering agency targets client outreach for all eligible households in accordance with annual work plans submitted by each
agency. Each work plan describes the eligible activities and then describes how the activity will be accomplished.

Examples of activities:

The purpose of this Outreach is to increase participation in the Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program through enhanced outreach efforts; get income-eligible households to (re)-apply for LIHEAP; and help households avoid the need to apply for emergency fuel assistance. Outreach activities are necessary to target those households most vulnerable to the effects of cold, especially young children, the elderly and people with a disability.
Energy vendors are asked to advise their customers about LIHEAP, are provided a supply of current LIHEAP applications, and make referrals to the agency.
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of LIHEAP assistance.
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs.
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups.
Coordinate efforts with local fuel funds through Energy Share.
Provide a Website and on-line LIHEAP application
Provide LIHEAP applications to other social service offices (Head Start, WIC Offices, child care centers, Offices of Public Assistance) and
agencies in their service area. LIHEAP brochure/pamphlet mailed to recipients of other cash assistance and service programs.
Place posters/flyers and LIHEAP applications in local and county social service offices. Area Agencies on Aging, Social Security office, VA,
Senior Centers, etc.
Contact local churches, synagogues and other faith-based organizations to get notices in church bulletins.
Meet with city and town officials, including elderly commissions and Area Agencies on Aging, to review the program and place notices in
senior papers.
Get information out through the public school system.
Get information out through the local housing authorities.
Post notices around public transit in larger cities.
Get information out through supermarkets, local neighborhood stores, food pantries, soup kitchens, community events, hospital social workers, local youth organizations, temporary employment centers, career centers, neighborhood health-care centers, second hand stores, thrift stores, labor organizations, local bingo halls, private daycare centers, fraternal organizations, local veterans organizations, city halls, town halls, municipal halls, libraries, banks, check cashing outlets, local immigrant organizations, meals on wheels, other elderly programs, pre-release programs, jail release programs, and common areas in apartment complexes.
Public speaking appearances by LIHEAP staff at local community groups.
Provide LIHEAP information at Health Fairs and County Fairs.
Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly and disabled.
Provide applications with return, pre-stamped envelopes mailed to homebound individuals who need help in applying for benefits.
Following up with households who have incomplete applications.
Assist targeted applicants to gather needed documentation.
Innovating with or continuing successful local outreach projects.
Provide a toll-free phone line.
Outreach Innovative Mini Grant(s) awarded by the administering agency to build a network of community outreach ambassadors to address energy self-sufficiency for low to moderate income individual and families.

Nebraska

Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs

Nebraska has Community Support Specialists that work with community organizations, including the community action agencies, and clients to provide information and updates regarding LIHEAP. The Community Support Specialists attend different functions in the communities to provide information to the public.

Energy providers also reach out to Nebraska residents with energy assistance needs. DHHS developed and provided flyers to partnering utility providers to distribute to their customers. The flyers were also distributed to staff from other economic assistance programs to distribute in the community.

DHHS has a website to inform the public about LIHEAP. Applications can be submitted via the DHHS website, as well. In addition, DHHS utilizes one application for all economic assistance programs. Thus, when a client applies for one program he or she is made aware of all available programs on the application.

LIHEAP staff actively provide updates to various divisions and agencies within the State of Nebraska, as well as to community agencies.

LIHEAP staff may facilitate or participate in the following meetings to share and obtain information: Executive Directors of the Community Action Agencies and Community Action of Nebraska meetings; monthly meetings wih Community Action of Nebraska; monthly meetings with NDEE; meetings with Continuum of Care leadership and homeless service providers; Connect the Dots meeting; Statewide Central Navigation meetings (which include representatives from both government and community agencies); Nebraska Partner Council meetings; Economic Assistance Program Management Meetings; and utility provider meetings.

LIHEAP staff provide updates throughout the year to energy utility providers via e-mail.

LIHEAP utilizes text messaging to inform prior recipients of the need to apply for or request assistance when the new LIHEAP season begins.

LIHEAP-specific information is provided on the automated message of the ACCESSNebraksa phone line at the beginning of the program year, as well as on the ACCESSNebraska website banner.

Information regarding LIHEAP is shared on social media.

Nevada

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups

Outreach to Welfare recipients.
Identified staff to go out into the community for outreach.

New Hampshire

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs

As social media is becoming more mainstream, some CAAs are using this platform to inform the public of LIHEAP as well as other programs that they have available. Other forms of media such as radio and television adds that run on a schedule are used and will be expanded.

The NH DOE again intends to enter into a partnership with the NH Electric Assistance Program to expand our social media presence.

CAAs regularly attend community fairs (education, health, utility, etc.) to ensure that LIHEAP information is reaching the public.

Some NH School Administration Units now contact parents via list serve e-mail to distribute "winter resource guides" in which local agencies will provide their LIHEAP brochures and fliers to reach parents/guardians.

Many CAAs have food pantries. Some are strategically placed near their LIHEAP outreach office and will see clients on a walk-in basis or will make LIHEAP appointments in conjunction with the food pantry appointment.

New Jersey

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups

New Jersey has increased its number of outreach agencies to cover the entire state. The agencies will collaborate with local and civic

organizations to plan outreach activities, assist customers with the completion of their online applications, and conduct home visits to complete applications for customers who are home bound and/or request home visit.

New Mexico

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs

HSD works closely with utility vendors and other local organizations to reach low income families, the elderly, disabled, and families with young children. LIHEAP staff will once again start participating in outreach activities throughout the state and will be providing literature and information. Staff works closely with the 33 New Mexico counties and 33 Income Support field offices to ensure that eligible households are aware of the services provided.

In FFY22, HSD began using mass text messaging to reach out to current/past Income Support Customers to provide infomation on the various low-income programs offered to eligible households. This will be an ongoing communication to eligible NM families/households.

New York

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs

Toll free information hotline operated by NYS OTDA 1-800-342-3009, provides information about the program and printable applications are available on the OTDA internet site when the program is open.

Identification of households potentially eligible for LIHEAP funded weatherization services and assessing the need for identified households. State and local resources dedicated to implementing mandated outreach plans and program dissemination activities. Targeted efforts by OTDA, NYSOFA, NYSHCR, NYSERDA and the NYS Department of Health (DOH) to provide program information and access to vulnerable households.

North Carolina

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups

The North Carolina Division of Social Services (NCDSS) partners with the North Carolina Division of Aging and Adult Services (DAAS) to provide outreach to aging and disabled adults regarding our heating component.

An energy programs focus group was implemented to look at root cause of issues regarding energy.

North Carolina sends out flyers, posters, press releases informing the public of programs and when they will start. Applicants can apply online, over the phone, in person, or mail/fax/drop off paper applications. North Carolina allows text messaging options and a phone app.

North Dakota

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups

The state issues press releases regarding LIHEAP.

Human service zone offices and alternate outreach organizations distribute heating assistance application forms to all individuals upon request, and provide such application forms to fuel suppliers, Community Action Agencies, senior citizen centers or any other individuals or organizations that are willing to distribute the form to potentially eligible households.

Community Options Outreach

The Department contracts with Community Options to provide outreach services with a focus on elderly and disabled people.

Community Options Specialists participates in local events at Senior Centers, businesses and organizations to give marketing presentations for LIHEAP and provide information and education about the program by placing flyers/door hangers in local communities statewide. They also attend various conferences around the state and conduct outreach activities via booth presentations.

In addition, they provide applications to interested clients, assit clients with completing applications and obtaining the required verifications, assist counties in obtaining necessary verifications for eligibility, and conduct home visits to home-bound individuals to assist with the application process.

All activities are coordinated with county social service office and the community action agencies to ensure that there is no duplication of services.

LIHEAP applications are also sent to all fixed income households from the prior year via mass-mailing in September.

Marketing

The state will use pandemic-related funds to implement a marketing campaign via a third-party vendor. The marketing efforts will focus on promoting the emergency furnace repair and replacement and cooling efforts.

Ohio

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups

Development has a comprehensive marketing plan for client education. It's a multi-platform plan that includes: brochures, a video, social media posts, posters, a website, and press release templates. These materials provide program information as well as instructions on how to apply for assistance. The brochures, posters, and press releases are formatted for co-branding with local Energy Assistance Providers.

Our website (energyhelp.ohio.gov) provides comprehensive information on the EnergyAssistance Programs, including contact information for local Energy Assistance Providers, a portal for clients to check the status of their application, and an online application process for clients to apply for certain programs online. Development also operates an (800) number to direct clients to their local Energy Assistance Provider.

Development works with the Ohio Association of Foodbanks, Ohio Department of Veterans Services, Public Utilities Commission of Ohio, Ohio Department of Job and Family Services, local libraries, and local Community Action Agencies to educate clients on the available Energy Assistance Programs. Development also partners with the Ohio Department of Aging to help older Ohioans.

Oklahoma

Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs

Many of our utility vendors give LIHEAP infomation to their customers via phone contact with customer service representatives as well as billing inserts. DHS LIHEAP also send press release to statewide for local television and radio networks to broadcast for upcoming LIHEAP open enrollment periods. In addtional, DHS LIHEAP also send post card via USPS and mass text message alert about our upcoming LIHEAP general open enrollment periods to vast Oklahoma households that are validated through a vested Oklahoma statewide data warehouse.
DHS LIHEAP is also listed in the JOIN (Joint Oklahoma Information Network) online directory as well as the Oklahoma Heartline 2-1-1 network directory. Both JOIN and Heartline 2-1-1 refer applicants to multiple agencies, nonprofits, and programs including LIHEAP.

Oregon

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups

Equity and Racial Justice
OHCS has committed to advance equity and racial justice by identifying and addressing institutional and systematic barriers that have created and perpetuated patterns of disparity in housing and economic prosperity. Towards that goal, OHCS will be evaluating equity and racial justice of populations served by the Oregon LIHEAP.
Implementation Strategies

Create and maintain a system to analyze the LIHEAP program delivery for equity and racial justice.
Evaluate the Oregon LIHEAP to identify barriers to access the program to ensure equitable outcomes.
Establish intentional outreach and educational strategies to engage culturally specific and culturally responsive organizations to ensure communities of color are aware of and have the ability to access LIHEAP services.

Pennsylvania

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs

Our application and flyers are available in Spanish. The flyer is available in Cambodian, Arabic, Russian, Vietnamese, and Chinese- these languages are printed as needed, not as part of our mass printings. Translation services for other languages are also available upon request. We also provide reproducible public education materials to utility companies and fuel vendors, upon request, for use in such ways as bill messages.

Puerto Rico

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups

Government call center 3-1-1- were any person can call and receive information regarding our services. Through this call, the persons can receive orientation regarding specific programs, schedule appointments and make fraud complaints, among other services.
Media tours and social networking will be carried out during the fiscal year. Also, the Family Department official site provides information on LIHEAP availabilty of services.
LIHEAP Brouchers will be producing and distribute in ADSEF public activities.

Rhode Island

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs

South Carolina

Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs

Special assistance with language translation.

South Dakota

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs

Tennessee

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs

All LIHEAP application information is listed on THDA's website.

Texas

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs

LIHEAP Subrecipients are to conduct outreach related to the utility assistance program and other assistance provided with the LIHEAP grant. The Department encourages subrecipients to conduct outreach through various methods to inform people without internet services about the LIHEAP utility assistance program. Entities to be informed include, but is not limited to, units of government, local non-profits, charitable organizations, and churches. Other ways that persons are informed are by utility vendors who include information in client bills about the

LIHEAP utility assistance program and the State’s phone number to contact if they need utility assistance. Some utility vendors inform customers and persons who are pending disconnection or who have had their services disconnected about the LIHEAP provider serving their area or provide them with the State phone number to contact. LIHEAP subrecipients also use social media and periodically do radio announcements and newspaper ads.

Utah

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs

We have a web-based online application system that is available to the general public to submit energy assistance applications online.
We also have a website that gives an overview of the program benefits and how to apply.

Vermont

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups

Mass Mailings: For Seasonal (heating) Fuel Assistance, the Vermont Economic Services Division (ESD) annually mails eligibility "renewal" documents for all public benefits that a household is receiving including LIHEAP, SNAP, TANF and healthcare programs. Other: Maintain an aggressive web presence with links between state government and non-profit programs that serve generally the same clientele. Provide annual trainings for advocates around the state. Operate an "800" state-wide "Benefits Service Center." For Seasonal (heating) Fuel Assistance, paper applications are available on-line, and clients can apply on-line. We provide $77,500 in outreach funds through our Council on Aging Agencies, plus we spend an additional $50,000 in outreach through our Crisis providers, who are always talking with Households regarding heating options.

In addition, we ran some ads last year through Vermont's "Front Porch Forum" and are thinking about doing it again as it allowed us to connect with 492,000 subscribers and we can explain the program and encourage them to apply.

Virginia

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs

For the Heating, Crisis, and Cooling components, the VDSS provides applications upon request as well as access to applications on the VDSS public website. Applications can be submitted in person as well as by mail; fax; online via CommonHelp; and via the phone through the VDSS Enterprise Customer Service Center. Applications are accepted at sites that are geographically accessible to all households within the service area. A toll-free telephone number for the hearing impaired is provided.

In September of 2022, households that received Heating, Crisis, or Cooling Assistance in the prior year receive a preprinted heating assistance application or a notice of preapproval for Heating Assistance in the mail. Last year, 83,632 households received a preprinted application for Heating Assistance. An additional 54,658 households received a notice of preapproval for Heating Assistance.

In June of 2023, we completed a preapproval process for Cooling households; 42,926 households were preapproved for Cooling Assistance.

Washington

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups

West Virginia

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups

In order to reach vulnerable populations in West Virginia, the Agency plans to work closely with Senior Centers to coordinate outreach and to assist with completing LIHEAP applications. The Agency will also seek permission from the public schools in all counties to send informational flyers home with students so that parents and/or guardians can receive information about LIHEAP application time periods and about the Emergency Repair or Replacement Program.

Wisconsin

lace posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
Utilize early application period at the beginning of the program for the elderly or disabled
Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups

Allocate funds specifically for the purpose of outreach to households with elderly, disabled, rural poor, and/or young children residents.

An early application period is utilized prior to the heating season. This process includes accepting applications during the summer for the following Federal Fiscal Year from targeted households. Automated Applications are processed during the early application period; agencies may also accept early Online Applications.

Accept applications for energy assistance at sites geographically accessible to all households in the area to be served. This includes setting up LIHEAP application sites for targeted households (contacting targeted persons or their representatives to ascertain convenient times and places, contacting community leaders to locate and serve application sites, providing information on alternate sites to organizations/programs likely to reach targeted persons, contacting targeted persons to arrange application appointments, transportation, etc.).

Provide information directly or by selective mailing to targeted applicants, e.g., assistance to understand the application form, translation of material, interpretation services for deaf, reading for blind needed to complete their application.

Facilitate access to state weatherization programs targeted to LIHEAP eligible households and other energy-related services e.g., utility early identification and emergency intervention.

Agencies are required to provide outreach services to maximize participation of eligible persons in the Low Income Home Energy

Assistance Program. It is the responsibility of each agency to provide application sites accessible to the eligible population in the county/tribe, with particular attention to overcoming barriers for targeted households. Outreach customer benefits include: taking applications, certifying application information, and processing applications at an alternate site.

Wyoming

Place posters/flyers in local and county social service offices, offices of aging, Social Security office, VA, etc.
Publish articles in local newspapers or broadcast media announcements
Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance
Make mass mailing to past recipients of LIHEAP
Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs

Social Media and Department and other Agency websites; participation at events that allow for the distribution of informational materials (e.g. Farmers markets, county fairs); application fairs; annual vendor meeting; PSAs throughout the season.

Source: FY 2024 State Model Plans