Sen. David G. Argall (R-29) announced low-income and fixed-income residents may apply for Pennsylvania's Low-Income Home Energy Assistance Program (LIHEAP) beginning on Nov. 1. LIHEAP offers a lifeline for residents unable to heat their homes.

"Home heating costs are sure to rise as we approach the winter months," said Argall. "Unfortunately, we have seen too many devastating headlines about the cold weather claiming the lives of local residents due to expensive home heating costs. This program protects our most vulnerable residents."To apply and determine eligibility, Pennsylvania residents can call the LIHEAP hotline, 1-866-857-7095, or contact their local county assistance office. In Schuylkill County, the county assistance office can be reached at (570) 621-3000; Berks County - (610) 736-4211; Carbon County -(610) 577-9020; Lehigh County - (610) 821-6509; Monroe County - (570) 424-3030 and Northampton County - (610) 250-1700.In addition to LIHEAP, many utility companies offer their own assistance plans. Interested customers should check with their individual heating fuel and electricity suppliers for more information.