State and Territory LIHEAP Outreach Activities

[Last updated: 01/10/2025]

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Note: Outreach is an important aspect of administering LIHEAP, both at the state and local level. Effective outreach means the housholds with the most need, or those the grant recipient 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 model plans, LIHEAP grant recipients 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 and territory model plans.

In addition to the eleven activities listed, grant recipients also identified other means of outreach. These include toll-free phone lines and special assistance such as translation and bilingual brochures to non-English speaking households.

At least eight grant recipients 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.

Grant recipients 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
  • Web posting

 

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
  • Web posting

Information is put on the Heating Assistance website. We take advantage of other opportunities to make presentations as they arise. For FY 2025 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.
  • Email
  • Text
  • Events
  • Social Media

 

Arizona

  • 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
  • Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups
  • Web posting

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

 

Arkansas

  • 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
  • Web posting
  • Social Media

The above are methods allowed by AEO for CBOs. AEO usually only posts to the website. Other allowable methods include, but are not limited to, mailing lists, door-to-door, geo-targeting, participation at benefits fairs, hosting senior center events, media print (billboards, newspapers, flyers, magazines, postcards), broadcast (radio and television), internet, texts, social media, visiting places of worship or social clubs, and operating a mobile unit

 

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
  • Web posting
  • Email
  • Text
  • Events
  • Social Media

    Additional methods include:
  • 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
  • Canvass neighborhoods and go door to door
  • Distributing flyers at schools
  • Distributing bilingual literature
  • Bilingual web posting and boosting
  • Live television interviews on local news platforms
  • Geofencing advertising on multiple digital platforms
  • Advertising on billboards and public and private transportation
  • Contractors’ marketing reports
  • Distributing a monthly electronic calendar of agency resources to database contacts
  • Telephone and mail outreach to utility customers with arrearages and on shut-off lists
  • Partnerships with agency vendors
  • Traveling to utility companies on shut-off notice days
  • Visiting low-income housing complexes
  • QR codes on outreach materials

 

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
  • Web posting
  • Text
  • Events
  • Social Media

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
  • Web posting
  • Text
  • Events
  • Social Media

The state provides up-to-date information for residents and vendors through a dedicated website.

Additionally, an Emergency Assistance Hotline is available at 1-800-842-1132 for immediate support.

Information about the program is also available in Regional Offices via the DSS Digital Network. The United Way of Connecticut offers program details and contact information through its DSS-funded 2-1-1 toll-free service, its website (www.211.org), and by texting CTWARM to 898211. This service provides information on energy assistance intake sites across the state.

To ensure that Connecticut's most vulnerable residents have access to the LIHEAP resource, we have expanded application options. Households can now apply online, by email, by mail, or initiate an application via telephone, where we accept electronic signatures.

Local Community Action Agencies also maintain updated websites with program information. Additionally, we hold annual meetings with our deliverable fuel vendors to keep them  informed of any program changes. An early application period at the start of the program allows agencies to conduct outreach, particularly to households that are vulnerable or 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
  • Web posting

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
  • Web posting

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
  • Web posting
  • Email
  • Text
  • Events
  • Social Media

FloridaCommerce’s website contains information with income eligibility and lists LIHEAP Subrecipients and their contact information.

 

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
  • Web posting
  • Social Media

 

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
  • Web posting
  • Social media
  1. Send and provide LIHEAP flyers to all who are interested parties, non-profit organizations, elderly and disabled individuals and agencies servicing the vulnerable population.
  2. Provide LIHEAP flyers to electric company for distribution to customers.
  3. Request that the Utility Companies encourage their customers who are expressing difficulty paying their bills to apply for LIHEAP.
  4. Provide LIHEAP flyers to electric company for distribution to customers.
  5. Request that the Utility Companies encourage their customers who are expressing difficulty paying their bills to apply for LIHEAP.
  6. 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.
  7. Gas Company provided with posters to put in their offices for the gas customers.
  8. Utility companies will provide LIHEAP applications in their bill collection offices.
  9. Utility companies provide literature, freebies and personnel to assist CAPS in their efforts in promoting LIHEAP benefits and performance measures.
  10. Local CAPS, as part of their outreach efforts, provide public service announcements via their agency website, radio and newspapers.
  11. 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.
  12. 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
  • 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
  • Web posting
  • Email
  • Text
  • Events
  • Social Media

Lead presentations at community meetings and at interagency meetings

 

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
  • 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

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
  • Web posting
  • Email
  • Events
  • Social media

IHCDA is implementing increased statewide promotion of LIHEAP, while coninuing to depend upon the subgrantee network to market on a local level.

 

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
  • Web posting
  • Social media

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
  • Web posting
  • Events
  • Social media

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
  • Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
  • Web posting
  • Social media

 

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
  • Web posting
  • Events
  • Social media

Registered with FindHelp.org and Unite Us Louisiana for referrals by healthcare, State, and other organizations.

 

Maine

  • 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
  • Web posting
  • Events

 

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
  • Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs
  • Web posting
  • Email
  • Events
  • Social media

In July 2019, Maryland launched an important outreach effort through the Critical Medical Needs Program (CMNP). This program includes trained "Navigators" who work within hospitals and healthcare communities to assist clients with energy assistance applications. Navigators conduct risk assessments, provide counseling, and offer help with energy suppliers. Applications are submitted directly to OHEP CMNP Liaisons for expedited processing to ensure the maintenance or restoration of service. A direct mailing is also sent to all Categorical Eligible household.

 

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
  • Web posting
  • Email
  • Text
  • Events
  • Social media

The Commonwealth of Massachusetts and its Subgrantees maintain working relationships with other state agencies including the SNAP office. Massachusetts will continue to partner with both state and outside resources to promote the HEAP program and explore new partnerships and methods of outreach. The MA Registry of Motor Vehicles will have a IHEAP advertisement run on its waiting rooms monitors. Massachusetts will continue to work with its digital consultant to establish individual Subgrantee social media marketing plans to better promote the program through targets advertisements on various social media applications. To appeal to more households, Massachusetts will drop “Low Income” from outreach and correspondence materials and refer to the program as Home Energy Assistance Program (HEAP).

 

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
  • Web posting
  • Social media

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
  • Web posting
  • Email
  • Social media

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
  • Web posting
  • Events
  • Social Media

 

Missouri

  • 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
  • Web posting
  • Email
  • Text
  • Events
  • Social media

 

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
  • Web posting
  • Events
  • Social media

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:

  1. 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.
  2. Energy vendors are asked to advise their customers about LIHEAP, are provided a supply of current LIHEAP applications, and make referrals to the agency.
  3. Include inserts in energy vendor billings to inform individuals of the availability of LIHEAP assistance.
  4. Inform low-income applicants of the availability of all types of LIHEAP assistance at application intake for other low-income programs.
  5. Execute interagency agreements with other low-income program offices to perform outreach to target groups.
  6. Coordinate efforts with local fuel funds through Energy Share.
  7. Provide a Website and on-line LIHEAP application
  8. 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.
  9. Place posters/flyers and LIHEAP applications in local and county social service offices. Area Agencies on Aging, Social Security office, VA,
    Senior Centers, etc.
  10. Contact local churches, synagogues and other faith-based organizations to get notices in church bulletins.
  11. Meet with city and town officials, including elderly commissions and Area Agencies on Aging, to review the program and place notices in
    senior papers.
  12. Get information out through the public school system.
  13. Get information out through the local housing authorities.
  14. Post notices around public transit in larger cities.
  15. 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.
  16. Public speaking appearances by LIHEAP staff at local community groups.
  17. Provide LIHEAP information at Health Fairs and County Fairs.
  18. Provide intake service through home visits or by telephone for the elderly and disabled.
  19. Provide applications with return, pre-stamped envelopes mailed to homebound individuals who need help in applying for benefits.
  20. Following up with households who have incomplete applications.
  21. Assist targeted applicants to gather needed documentation.
  22. Innovating with or continuing successful local outreach projects.
  23. 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
  • Web posting
  • Email
  • Text

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 with 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
  • 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 ACCESSNebraska phone line at the beginning of the program year.
 

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
  • Web posting
  • Social media

Outreach to Welfare recipients. Identified staff to go out into the community for outreach. The Energy Assistance Program has a web page on the Division’s website and some energy vendors have the program information and links to the Division website on their websites.

 

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
  • Web posting
  • Email
  • Events
  • Social Media

As a state, we partner with our state Electric Assistance Program to use a marketing firm to target streaming ads on radio, internet, and television platforms. The CAA subgrantees utilize many avenues, including those above as well as partnerships with local organizations, schools, veteran organizations, and community fairs. Several of the subgrantees operate food pantries and use this as an outreach opportunity, placing info in food pantry bags or using a visit for food pantry use to offer LIHEAP services.
 

New Jersey

  • 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
  • Web posting
  • Email
  • Events
  • Social Media

 

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
  • Text
  • Social media
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 has started participating in outreach activities throughout the state and provids literature and information. Staff works closely with the 33 New Mexico counties and 33 Income Support field offices to ensure that approximately the 115,00 eligible households are aware of the services provided. 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
  • 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
  • Web posting
  • Events
  • Social media

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.
  • Web posting

 

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
  • Web posting
  • Text
  • Events
  • Social media

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 people with disabilities. 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, assist 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 Human Service Zone 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. In FY2023 (through 6/30/2023) LIHEAP Outreach Specialists from across the state turned in 607 LIHEAP applications.

Marketing
The state will implement a marketing campaign via a third-party vendor. The marketing efforts will focus on promoting the LIHEAP program to our target populations (individuals with young children, older adults, and individuals with disabilities.
 

Northern 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
  • Web posting
  • Email
  • Events
  • Social media

As part of our outreach efforts, we have informational booths at big events hosted by partnering agencies such as the Blue ribbon campaign, Domestic Violence awareness month, etc.

 

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
  • 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

Development has a comprehensive marketing plan for client education. It's a multi-platform plan that includes brochures, social media posts, email, texting, events, 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 cobranding with local Energy Assistance Providers.

 

Oklahoma

  • 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
  • Text
  • Social media

OKDHS LIHEAP sends a broadcast message to utility suppliers prior to open enrollment. Many of our utility suppliers give LIHEAP information, on their website, to their customers via phone contact with customer service representatives, as well as billing inserts. OKDHS LIHEAP sends a press release statewide for local television, newspaper, and radio networks to broadcast for upcoming LIHEAP open enrollment periods. OKDHS LIHEAP sends text messages about our LIHEAP general open enrollment periods to Oklahoma households that are validated through a statewide data warehouse. The anticipated program open enrollment dates are posted on the external website. Prior to our open enrollment period, a text message was sent to households using EBT services. OKDHS LIHEAP is listed on the JOIN (Joint Oklahoma Information Network) online directory as well as the Oklahoma Heartline 2-1-1 network directory. Both programs refer customers to multiple agencies, nonprofits, and programs including LIHEAP. As a result of client feedback, the anticipated open enrollment dates for all program components have been posted on the external OKDHS website and internally on Teams with staff. The anticipated open enrollment dates are communicated in advance with participating utility suppliers through email. The life-threatening energy crisis program is available year-round by telephone referral. Information about the program and the call-in number is provided on the OKDHSLive application, OKDHSLive and OKDHS.org websites.

 

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

Outreach is conducted by local service providers.

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
  • Web posting
  • Email
  • Social media

Our application and flyers are available in Spanish, 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
  • Web posting
  • Events
  • Social media
  1. Government call center 3-1-1 where 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.
  2. Media tours and social networking will be carried out during the fiscal year. Also, the Family Department official site provides information on the availability of LIHEAP services.
  3. LIHEAP brochures will be produced and distributed 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
  • Web posting
  • Events
  • Social media

In our social media we use QR codes that take applicants to the online application. We also use hashtags. We offer training for community partners and government offices so that they can better direct their constituents to apply. We hold LIHEAP clinics at City Halls, schools, and non-profits where people can come to apply for LIHEAP. 

 

South Carolina

  • 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

 

South Dakota

  • 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
  • Web posting

 

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
  • Web posting
  • Text
  • Events

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
  • Web posting
  • Social media

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

For Seasonal (heating) Fuel Assistance, the Vermont Economic Services Division (ESD) mails eligibility "renewal" documents for all public benefits that a household is receiving  including LIHEAP, SNAP, TANF programs. Other: Maintain an aggressive web presence with links between state government and nonprofit programs that serve generally the same clientele. We provide annual training for advocates from around the state. ESD also operates an "800" state-wide "Benefits Service Center." For Seasonal Fuel Assistance (Heating), paper applications are available on-line, and clients can apply on-line, or in person. We provide $77,500 in outreach funds through our Council on Aging Agencies, plus we provide additional funding (approximately $50,000) in outreach through our Crisis Fuel providers, who are always talking with Households regarding heating options. In addition, in previous years we have ran some ads through Vermont's "Front Porch Forum" and are considering doing it again as it allowed us to connect with approximately 230,000 subscriber and provides us another opportunity to talk with them about 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
  • Web posting
  • Social media

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 2023, 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, 83,380 households received a preprinted application for Heating Assistance. An additional 57,557 households received a notice of preapproval for Heating Assistance. In June of 2024, we completed a preapproval process for Cooling households; 47,995 households were preapproved for Cooling Assistance. During each component of the Energy Assistance Program, we use social media posts for the DSS Facebook and Twitter accounts to alert potential applicants to the application period starting and ending, to benefits being distributed, and to any questions that arise during the component.

 

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
  • Web posting
  • Events
  • Social media

 

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
  • Web posting
  • Email
  • Social media

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
  • Web posting
  • Email
  • Text
  • Events
  • Social media

 

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
  • Web posting
  • Email
  • Events
  • Social media

Source: FY 2025 State Model Plans